Japan’s only ‘baby hatch’ offers mums a safe and anonymous place to give up newborns

Jul 22 (South China Morning Post) - For 15 years, a hospital in southern Japan has been the only place in the country where a child can be anonymously and safely abandoned.

Jikei hospital in the Kumamoto region also offers a 24-hour pregnancy support hotline and Japan’s only “confidential birth” programme. Expectant mums are offered health checks and other support, and they are encouraged to provide confidential information that could help a child learn about their origins later in life. The Catholic-run hospital opened its baby hatch in 2007, modelled on a German scheme. Such facilities have been banned in some countries including Britain. The United Nations has criticised baby hatches for violating a child’s right to eventually discover who their parents are.

Japan Grapples with Poverty and Rising 'Invisible Homeless'

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

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World's First Fiber Made From Bagworm Silk Revolutionizes Industry

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Japan's Year-End Jumbo Lottery Kicks Off Nationwide

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Japan, Canada to Establish Economic '2+2' Framework for EV Cooperation

Prime Minister Ishiba, attending the G20 summit in Brazil, held talks on November 18th with UK Prime Minister Starmer, where they agreed to establish an economic "2+2" framework involving foreign and economic ministers.

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