A petition reaches the metropolitan government
In an interview published on 30 November 2022, Yamamoto said the campaign had gathered more than 19,000 signatures. She described approaching the assembly and governor after hearing about partners being denied recognition as family during hospital care. Her partner Yoriko said the certificate helped them feel recognised as a family. [3]
Proof of partnership in everyday life
The metropolitan government’s user guide explains that the certificate can demonstrate a partnership when applying for metropolitan public housing. The interview also described efforts to extend workplace benefits, hospital information and family discounts to partners. Access to those services depends on the arrangements adopted by each provider. [2][3]
The certificate has limits
The guide makes clear that the oath has no marriage-like legal effects, such as inheritance rights or a duty of support. Yamamoto said she also wanted to contribute to achieving marriage equality in Japan. [2][3]