Eslovaquia
On September 26, 2025, Slovakia's Parliament approved a constitutional amendment that legally recognizes only two sexes—male and female. This decision has ignited significant concern among human rights organizations and the international community.
The amendment, initiated by Prime Minister Robert Fico's populist government, passed with 90 votes in the 150-member chamber, receiving support from conservative opposition lawmakers. Beyond limiting gender recognition, the changes also restrict adoption rights exclusively to married heterosexual couples and reinforce Slovakia’s sovereignty in matters of "national identity," which are vaguely defined in cultural and ethical domains. Additionally, the amendment mandates parental consent for sex education and guarantees equal pay for men and women.
Justice Minister Boris Susko defended the amendment as a move to uphold traditional values. He stated that the changes are intended to strengthen the protection of traditional values, which is key to preserving the cultural heritage of the Slovak Republic and ensuring legal stability.
Critics, including Amnesty International and the Council of Europe’s Human Rights Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty, have condemned the law. They warn that it may violate international human rights obligations and discriminate against transgender and intersex individuals. Amnesty International stated that the Slovak government chose to follow the lead of countries whose policies have led to an erosion of human rights. O’Flaherty urged lawmakers not to approve the changes, emphasizing that they deny the realities of trans and intersex people and may impact human rights guarantees such as access to legal gender recognition.
The development has sparked mass protests across the country. Thousands have repeatedly rallied in the capital and other cities to protest Fico's pro-Russian stance and other policies. Demonstrators express concerns that under Fico's rule, Slovakia may abandon its pro-Western course and follow the direction of Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
The constitutional amendment represents a significant shift in Slovakia's legal framework concerning gender recognition and family rights. By legally recognizing only two sexes and restricting adoption rights, the amendment has profound implications for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the country. The move has also intensified concerns over Slovakia’s political alignment and its adherence to international human rights standards.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these legal changes will be implemented and what further reactions they will provoke both domestically and internationally.
