German Legislation for Transgender Rights
German lawmakers approved legislation making it easier for transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people to change their name and gender in official records, with the 'self-determination law' set to take effect on Nov. 1.
Key Points
- New law allows adults to change name and gender without additional formalities
- Minors 14 years and older can change name and gender with parental approval or appeal to family court
- Legislation does not involve revisions to rules for gender-transition surgery
Pros
- Easier process for transgender, intersex, and nonbinary individuals to change their name and gender in official records
- Elimination of requirements like assessments from experts, court decisions, divorce, sterilization, and gender-transition surgery
- Legislation focuses on individuals' legal identities
Cons
- Criticism from conservative opposition regarding lack of safeguards against abuse and protection for young people