Japan Prohibits Unconventional Baby Names
Japan Introduces Tighter Regulations on Unusual Baby Names
In a bid to prevent confusion and potential bullying, the Japanese government has imposed new rules on baby naming. The focus is on the trend of unconventional names, often referred to as "kirakira" names, which are unusually creative or based on pop culture and anime characters.
The government's move aims to eliminate such names due to their problematic pronunciation, as reported by the British "Guardian". From now on, parents will have to use Kanji characters, but they must register the phonetic reading with local authorities.
One challenge is that a single Kanji character can have multiple readings based on its combination and context. In the future, only officially recognized readings will be allowed for names. Parents who choose a name with a unique pronunciation may need to justify their choice and suggest an alternative if necessary.
While the top 10 baby names remain unchanged, the new guidelines may affect parents who prefer kirakira names. Examples of these names include "Pikachu," "Winnie the Pooh," "Simba," and English words like "tomorrow" or "sugar" used as names.
The debate over kirakira names has been ongoing in Japan since the 1990s. While some argue for parental creativity, authorities point out the potential for confusion and complications in school, hospitals, and public services, apart from the social impact on children who might face bullying or stigma due to unusual names.
Sources:- ntv.de- akr
[Background: The new regulations are part of an update to the Family Register Act. They aim to maintain cultural norms and linguistic clarity by limiting highly creative or flashy name choices, as some names have led to administrative inefficiencies and social challenges for children due to their unusual or hard-to-pronounce nature.]
In line with the Family Register Act update, the community policy and employment policy within Japan may require parents to ensure their child's name complies with the new regulations, avoiding unconventional "kirakira" names like "Pikachu" or "Winnie the Pooh." Additionally, the employment policy may necessitate clear and standardized naming practices to facilitate school, health-and-wellness, and parenting processes, reducing potential confusion, bullying, and social stigma. Science and research may play a significant role in the future, as authorities continue to study the impact of unusual names on a child's well-being and integration into society.
