TOKYO —A government panel on Wednesday began substantial discussions toward allowing neglected children to stay in foster care until they turn 20 years old, the legal age of adulthood in Japan, instead of the current 18 years old, to better help them live independently after leaving foster care.
 

A person under 18 years old is defined as a “child” under the Child Welfare Law in Japan and can remain at a child care facility or live with foster parents, but will remain a “minor” until he or she reaches 20 under the Civil Code, meaning that the person may face difficulties in securing housing and other necessities like a mobile phone as minors cannot sign contracts without a parent’s consent.
 

The Child Welfare Law in principle allows children under 18 to stay in foster care. The age-limit can be extended to 20 years old on exception, but children usually leave the facilities or their foster parents after they graduate from high school.


 

Based on the outcome of the panel discussions, which will be held by the end of the year, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare seeks to submit bills to revise related laws during the regular Diet session to be convened next year.
 

Critics say the current system has flaws as support measures for children end at a certain age. At the meeting Wednesday, one panel member called for a legal system that offers necessary assistance to children even after they reach 20 years old.
 

Japan lowered the voting age to 18 from 20 earlier this year, triggering a debate on whether the definition of a minor under the Civil Code should be changed. But another panel member said the move should not influence stipulations of the Child Welfare Law, which is aimed at supporting children.


© KYODO