The age of majority in Japan will be lowered to 18 from April. This major shift marks the first change to the age of adulthood in the country in 146 years, since it was set at 20 during the Meiji period (1868-1912).

       On April 1, when the revised Civil Code comes into effect, in addition to those who have already turned 20, over 2 million young people aged 18 and 19 will become legal adults at the same time.

       Those young people will be able to make their own life choices and decisions in various situations in society. At the same time, they will also have responsibilities as adults. As Japan marks Coming-of-Age Day on Jan. 10, we hope to raise awareness of this change not only among those it directly affects, but in society as a whole.

       When people reach the age of majority, they will not need their parents' consent to enter into contracts, such as those to purchase smartphones and sign up for credit cards. The same applies to their career decisions, such as where they will continue their studies or work, as well as choosing where to live, and marriage. The legal age for drinking, smoking and public gambling will remain set at 20.

       The range of action available to these new adults come with responsibilities. A stipulation in the Civil Code that allowed contracts by 18-and 19-year-olds to be canceled if they were not made with parental consent will no longer apply. There is a danger of them falling into debt by taking out consumer and credit card loans, and falling victim to unscrupulous business practices.

       As citizen judges, they may be required to judge people in courts of law. And if they commit a crime and are indicted, their name may be reported in the media.

       Behind the lowering of the age of majority is the idea that young people should participate in society sooner, as Japan struggles with a declining birth rate and aging population. The voting age in Japan was lowered to 18 six years ago. The mainstream trend overseas has been to set the age of majority at 18.

       Various opinion polls, however, show a lack of widespread concrete understanding of people's rights and responsibilities. For the time being, consideration from the people surrounding these new adults will be essential.

       Many people will become adults during their third year of high school. The Ministry of Justice, the Consumer Affairs Agency and other bodies have created teaching materials and pamphlets, and have urged them to be utilized at schools, but we cannot deem the efforts to date to be sufficient.

       To raise awareness, it is necessary to further enhance learning opportunities.

       It has been pointed out that "sovereign education" which began in Japan in line with the enlargement of the franchise, has not been given serious attention. In fact, the voting rate of 18- and 19-year-olds in national elections is low.

       Education on the rights and obligations of adults, such as on labor, taxes and social security, is also important. At school and in the home, it is also necessary to foster preparation for young adults to participate in society while respecting others.

       What does it mean to become an adult? As the age of majority is lowered to 18 in Japan, we want to consider this question anew.

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