A family in Japan has lodged a lawsuit against a mother and the city authorities after a father committed suicide, reportedly fueled by frustration over being unable to see his child due to an ongoing custody dispute. The family alleges both the mother's obstruction of visitation rights and the city's inadequate response to the father's pleas for assistance played a crucial role in his decision to take his life. This tragic turn of events has put a renewed focus on parental rights and the child custody system in Japan.

In Japan, sole custody is usually awarded to one parent after divorce, and it is often the mother. This has led to criticism and numerous cases where the noncustodial parent is denied visitation rights. This case highlights the emotional distress caused by these policies and raises questions about the responsibility of local authorities to intervene in family disputes.

In sharp contrast, in the US and the EU, most courts opt for joint custody wherever possible to maintain the child's healthy relationship with both parents. Cases of noncompliance with visitation orders are taken seriously and there are legal consequences.