News|Civil RightsSlovak constitutional change promotes anti-LGBTQ ‘national identity’The constitutional amendment states that male and female will be the only recognised genders in the country.

Slovakia has enacted a constitutional amendment affecting the recognition of gender and same-sex rights.

The Slovak parliament approved the amendment on Fri, which officially recognizes only male and female genders. Furthermore, school curricula must align with cultural and ethical standards as per the constitution.

The amendment passed with the minimum required 90 votes in the 150-seat parliament, supported by some conservative opposition members.

This legislative change signifies a significant shift within the European Union framework, as national law may now take precedence over EU law, potentially impacting the EU's 27-member state operations.

Prime Minister Robert Fico characterized the amendment as a measure against progressivism.

Michal Simecka of Progressive Slovakia criticized the amendment, suggesting it might affect Slovakia's position within the EU. The proposal emphasizes that "there are two sexes, male and female," defined at birth, and suggests that sex modifications are subject to legal procedures.

The amendment limits adoption rights to married couples, with few exceptions, and reinforces the constitutional definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, established in 2014.

MP Maria Kolikova expressed concerns that the changes might affect EU funding for Slovakia and its membership in the Council of Europe.

The Council of Europe's Venice Commission advised that definitions of "national identity" should not conflict with Slovakia's international obligations. Amnesty International also criticized the amendment for its implications on LGBTI+ and reproductive rights.

Since Prime Minister Fico's return to power in 2023, protests have occurred against his policies, including media restrictions and closer ties with Moscow.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.