Japan’s parliament has approved changes aimed at protecting the future of the world’s oldest hereditary monarchy, as the imperial family faces a shortage of male heirs. The new rules will allow distant male relatives to join the royal family and help preserve the traditional male line of succession. But the decision has sparked backlash, as Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito, remains unable to inherit the throne under Japan’s current laws. Despite strong public support for a female emperor, Japan’s monarchy will continue to pass only through male descendants. Tap the link in @BBCNews's bio to read more about Japan's royal family. #Japan #RoyalFamily #PrincessAiko #Monarchy #BBCNews