Tokyo Cardinal Criticizes Japan’s Decision on Non-Prescription Morning-After Pill
Cardinal Isao Kikuchi, Archbishop of Tokyo, expressed concern over Japan’s recent move to allow the sale of the emergency contraceptive pill without a doctor’s prescription. He cautioned that such accessibility may weaken moral values and diminish respect for human life.
“I cannot approve measures that may take human life without adequate moral education,” said Cardinal Kikuchi in an interview with UCA News.
The new policy, introduced by Aska Pharmaceutical on October 20, 2025, marks a significant shift in Japan’s reproductive health regulations. For the first time, women in Japan will be able to purchase the morning-after pill directly from pharmacies, though the process must still be supervised by a trained pharmacist.
The cardinal acknowledged that the change aims to enhance women’s autonomy, stating that it contributes to recognizing a woman’s “right to self-determination.” However, he stressed that moral principles must guide such reforms, reminding that “life is a gift from God.”
The emergency contraceptive is designed to prevent pregnancy if taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. According to Aska Pharmaceutical, this step will bring Japan closer to the practices of many Western nations and improve access to reproductive healthcare for women.
Author’s Summary
Cardinal Kikuchi warned that making morning-after pills available without prescription may erode moral responsibility while Japan attempts to modernize its reproductive health policies.