Illustration by Maqué Studio
Equality Bodies that have a mandate to tackle discrimination based on the grounds of gender identity, sex characteristics and gender expression can better address the needs of the LGBTQI+ community and ensure equality for trans, intersex and gender-diverse people.
The Office of the Public Defender of Rights received a complaint from Saša, a graduate who had undergone gender reassignment and whose university refused to issue the diploma with the new personal data, claiming that it would have been against the law.
The Public Defender of Rights issued a recommendation highlighting the need to amend the law and the potential discriminatory effects on the career path of trans people if they are unable to obtain a university diploma with a new name. In response to the Public Defender of Rights’ recommendation, the Ministry of Education provided comprehensive guidance to university rectors. Later, in a similar case, the Czech Court echoed the Equality Body’s stance.
Following that, universities in the country are more likely to adopt a more inclusive approach, ensuring increased equality and safety for trans graduates and professionals. This progress paves the way for imminent legal changes, promising a brighter, fairer future.
Are you interested in knowing more on how Equinet and Equality Bodies promote LGBTQI+ equality and inclusion?
- In 2020, Equinet published a Discussion Paper on Equality Bodies working on the rights and discriminations faced by Trans and Intersex Persons. This publication provides an overview of the existing legal protection against discrimination towards trans and intersex persons, as well as the reasons why trans and intersex persons experience discrimination from the perspective of Equality Bodies. The discussion paper also includes a reflection on the challenges faced in tackling discrimination and examples of activities carried out by Equality Bodies to ensure equality.
- In 2024, Equinet will publish a report on LGBTQI+ Equality, which will provide an overview of Equality Bodies’ work towards LGBTQI+ equality and will collect good practices from our Members. Stay tuned!