Fri Sep 26 13:52:40 UTC 2025: ## Slovakia Constitutionally Limits Gender Recognition, Sparks EU Concerns

**Bratislava, Slovakia** – The Slovakian Parliament has approved a constitutional amendment defining gender as solely male or female, a move critics say will curtail the rights of same-sex couples and potentially clash with EU law. The amendment, passed Friday with the minimum 90 votes required in the 150-seat lower house, also mandates that school curricula adhere to the country’s constitution’s “cultural and ethical positions.”

Prime Minister Robert Fico, who framed the amendment as a “dam against progressivism,” has faced criticism both domestically and internationally. Opposition leader Michal Simecka of Progressive Slovakia warned the change “will hurt the people of Slovakia and call into question Slovakia’s place in the EU and its legal space.”

The amendment, echoing sentiments previously expressed by former US President Donald Trump, defines sex as either male or female at birth and states that it “cannot be modified except for serious reasons.” It also limits adoption rights to married couples, with limited exceptions.

This amendment builds upon a 2014 constitutional change, also implemented under Fico’s leadership, that defines marriage as solely between a man and a woman. Furthermore, it asserts Slovakia’s “sovereignty” over “cultural and ethical questions,” potentially overriding EU law in these areas.

The Council of Europe’s Venice Commission had previously cautioned against using definitions of “national identity” and “cultural and ethical issues” in a way that conflicts with Slovakia’s international obligations. Similarly, Amnesty International condemned the amendment, arguing it targets LGBTI+ and reproductive rights, placing the constitution “in direct conflict with international law.”

MP Maria Kolikova of the Freedom and Solidarity party cautioned that the amendment could jeopardize EU funding and undermine Slovakia’s membership in the Council of Europe.

Fico, who returned to power in 2023, has faced numerous protests regarding his policies, which include tightening control over media outlets and replacing key figures in cultural institutions. The Prime Minister has also been criticised for his close ties with Moscow, making Slovakia one of the Kremlin’s few allies within the European Union. The approval of this amendment has further amplified concerns about the direction of the country and its relationship with the rest of Europe.

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