Slovakia's parliament has passed a constitutional amendment that prioritizes national legislation over European Union directives in areas tied to "national identity," encompassing family structures and gender definitions.
The vote, secured with the bare minimum of 90 votes in the 150-seat lower house, relied on support from select conservative opposition members.
This development underscores Prime Minister Robert Fico's administration's pivot toward conservative values amid its warming relations with Russia and China.
The amendment explicitly recognizes only male and female as genders, determined at birth, with modifications permitted solely for grave medical reasons under future legal frameworks.
It mandates that educational curricula align with the constitution's cultural and ethical stances.
Fico has positioned this as "a dam against progressivism," aiming to preserve ancestral traditions and spiritual heritage while erecting barriers to liberal influences.
Slovakia's constitution, already defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman since a 2014 revision under Fico's prior tenure, now asserts sovereignty in ethical domains over EU law.
This could strain the bloc's cohesion, as national precedence challenges the uniformity of 27 member states' legal frameworks.
Human rights advocates have decried the changes for undermining protections in LGBTI+ and reproductive spheres.
Amnesty International labeled it "devastating news," noting the conflict with international obligations.
The Venice Commission, an advisory body of the Council of Europe, highlighted risks from vague terms like "national identity," warning of arbitrary enforcement and potential discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Opposition leader Michal Simecka cautioned that the move harms Slovaks and kindizes the nation's EU standing.
Centre-right MP Maria Kolikova echoed concerns over threats to EU funding and Council of Europe membership.
Despite the backlash, the amendment includes a nod to equity by committing to close the gender pay gap.
Fico's government, facing protests since his 2023 return, has intensified oversight of NGOs, public media, and independent outlets, framing critics as coup plotters.