Slovakia has amended its constitution to explicitly define gender as either male or female, a decision that has sparked significant backlash from human rights organizations and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. The change, which overrides legal provisions that previously recognized non-binary identities, has drawn criticism for potentially exacerbating discrimination against transgender and non-binary individuals. Rights groups warn that the amendment could harm Slovakia’s relationship with the European Union, where the country is expected to uphold progressive human rights standards.
The constitutional shift, which was approved by the Slovak parliament in a recent legislative session, has been hailed by some conservative factions within the country as a step toward preserving traditional family values. However, critics argue that the move contradicts international norms and could isolate Slovakia from its European partners. The decision has also raised concerns about the legal protections available to individuals who do not identify as exclusively male or female, with some legal experts predicting a potential increase in litigation over gender recognition issues.
International observers have expressed disappointment with the amendment, citing Slovakia’s previous commitments to gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. The European Union has called for dialogue and cooperation in addressing such issues, emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights standards across all member states. Despite the controversy, the government maintains that the amendment is a reflection of national values and does not intend to restrict the rights of any individual beyond the defined legal framework.