Slovak parliament enshrines recognition of only two sexes in Constitution
The Venice Commission of the Council of Europe stated that the amendments create legal uncertainty and contradict Slovakia’s obligations to the EU.
On September 26, 2025, Slovakia’s parliament approved constitutional amendments recognizing only two sexes – male and female. The news was reported by Deutsche Welle.
The amendments also ban adoption of children by unmarried couples and introduce a complete ban on surrogacy. According to Minister of Justice Boris Susko, the purpose of the changes is to strengthen traditional values and preserve the country’s cultural heritage.
Ninety out of 150 deputies voted for the amendments – the minimum required to change the constitution. The ruling coalition lacked enough votes on its own and was supported by several conservative opposition deputies. Most opposition MPs boycotted the session, while seven voted against.
The amendments sparked criticism from the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe and a group of Slovak lawyers, who argue that the changes contradict the country’s international commitments and create legal uncertainty. Nevertheless, the amendments will come into effect on November 1.
It is noted that Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has increasingly positioned himself as a supporter of conservative values. His political ally, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, had earlier initiated similar constitutional changes in Hungary, restricting LGBT rights and affirming the recognition of only two genders.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Slovak Prime Minister called for the Constitution to enshrine the recognition of only two genders.
