Reintroduction of forced sterilisation of transgender persons in Slovakia
28.11.2016
Question for written answer E-008856-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea (ALDE) , Brando Benifei (S&D) , Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE) , Santiago Fisas Ayxelà (PPE) , Ana Gomes (S&D) , Karin Kadenbach (S&D) , Jude Kirton-Darling (S&D) , Stelios Kouloglou (GUE/NGL) , Javi López (S&D) , Ulrike Lunacek (Verts/ALE) , Maria Noichl (S&D) , Pina Picierno (S&D) , Kati Piri (S&D) , Terry Reintke (Verts/ALE) , Judith Sargentini (Verts/ALE) , Ivo Vajgl (ALDE) , Cora van Nieuwenhuizen (ALDE) , Hilde Vautmans (ALDE) , Daniele Viotti (S&D) , Julie Ward (S&D)
Unlike many Member States, Slovakia does not authorise transgender persons to have their gender legally recognised without undergoing gender reassignment treatment. However, there is no clear legal basis specifying that such treatment entails sterilisation. And yet, since July 2016, birth registries have required a medical certificate to be submitted, testifying that ‘reproductive functions of the patient have been definitely eliminated’. As a result, transgender persons are not able to have their gender legally recognised without undergoing forced sterilisation.
This change in practice is not supported by any change in law. It stands in contrast to Slovakia’s Criminal Code, Act No 300/2005, which bans illegal sterilisation. It also contradicts Slovakia’s report on the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (2015), stipulating that the law and practice on granting informed consent for sterilisation procedures were aligned with international standards by the amendment of Act No 576/2004 on providing healthcare. This highlights in particular ‘the right to protection of dignity, and respect for physical integrity and psychological integrity.’
1. Does the Commission believe that forced sterilisation is compatible with the values of respect for human rights, as enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union, and the rights enshrined in Articles 3, 21 and 35 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights?
2. Will the Commission ensure that the harmful change in practice is reversed?