In a massive step for trans rights, Spain has approved a new LGBTQ+ inclusive bill that allows trans youth to change their gender via self-identification.
On 27 June, the country’s cabinet ministers approved a landmark legislation that allows trans teens 16 and over to change their name and gender without parental consent.
For trans youth between the ages of 14 and 16, the individuals would need permission from their parents, or they can apply for a judge’s authorisation.
In regards to those aged between 12 and 14, they’ll be allowed to change their name but must receive approval from a judge to change their gender.
The new law, which was presented by Spain’s United We Can party, is a stark contrast to the country’s current rules – which require individuals to be on hormonal treatments for two years and obtain an official medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria.
The new bill is also set to include expats that reside in the country. However, officials have said that “their rights are not guaranteed in their home countries.”
Alongside the landmark improvement for trans rights, the bill will ban conversion therapy as well, as reported by EuroWeekly.
“This is a historic day after more than 15 years without any legislative progress,” Spain’s Equality Minister Irene Montero said in a statement.
“We want to send a very clear message that the lives of LGBTQ persons matter. Today we again place ourselves in the vanguard of LGBTQ rights.”
Since the bill’s cabinet approval, LGBTQ+ activists have taken to social media and praised officials for their landmark decision.
One Twitter user wrote: “Big news for trans people out of Spain! Spain just drafted a new law that will allow trans youth there to change their legal gender freely at 16 years old without parental permission. For all the talk about how TERFs are taking over Europe, they are not succeeding in Spain.”
Another person tweeted: “So excited for this win for the trans community in Spain I hope other countries follow suit.”
With the bill passing in Spain’s cabinet, it now heads to the country’s Congress for final approval.
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