Government policy Self-determination law in force in Germany

A new law makes it easier for people in Germany to have their gender and first name changed. The so-called Self-Determination Act has been in force since Friday, having been pushed through by the traffic light coalition amid much debate.

A declaration to the registry office is now sufficient to change the gender entry to female, male or diverse, or even to indicate a waiver.

"A very special day for all transgender, intersex and non-binary people," said German Equality Minister Lisa Paus (Greens). "With the entry into force of the Self-Determination Act, the simple change of gender entry and first names is finally becoming a reality."

The German government's Queer Commissioner, Sven Lehmann (Greens), said: "Germany is thus joining the group of countries worldwide that allow people to correct their gender entry and first name without pathologizing them." Similar regulations already exist in 16 countries, such as Argentina, New Zealand, Ireland and Switzerland.

Difficult procedure

For more than 40 years, the previous controversial Transsexuals Act involved a lengthy and costly procedure with expert opinions and court rulings for those affected. Now it is sufficient to register with the registry office, after three months the declaration can be made and the change can take place - registration has been possible since August. According to the German Ministry of Family Affairs, the three-month waiting period serves, among other things, as a reflection period for the person.

The gender and first name entry can be changed again after twelve months at the earliest. A change is also possible for minors under certain conditions, such as parental consent.

SDA