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 LGBTIQ+ community and ensure equality for trans, intersex, and gender-diverse people.
In Hungary, Eszter, a trans woman returning to work after gender reassignment surgery, requested access to the women’s changing room and restroom. Instead of granting her request, the employer held a secret vote among female employees, who largely opposed it. Subsequently, the employer denied her access to the women’s facilities.
The Office of the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights found this to be direct discrimination based on gender identity. It ruled that the employer’s reliance on employee opinions was unjustified and ordered the situation to be rectified within 90 days, reinforcing Eszter’s right to dignity and equal treatment
Are you interested in knowing more about how Equinet and Equality Bodies work to ensure equal access to fundamental rights for LGBTIQ+ persons?
- In 2020 Equinet published a discussion paper “Equality Bodies working on the rights and discriminations faced by Trans and Intersex Persons“, which aimed at building the capacity of equality bodies’ staff and provides information on existing legal protection against discrimination toward trans and intersex persons, as well as working definitions used by equality bodies.
- In 2024 Equinet held a webinar “Equality Bodies Promoting the Rights of Rainbow Families” highlighting the vital role of equality bodies in addressing the challenges faced by mobile rainbow families. The event drew on key findings from a dedicated report developed by Equinet’s Cluster on Rainbow Families on the Move.
- In 2024 Equinet published a report called “Advancing LGBTIQ+ Equality in Europe: The Role of Equality Bodies“, which offers an overview of the mandates of Equinet Members regarding the grounds of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). It highlights the actions they take across various fields of life and aspects of the lived experience of LGBTIQ+ persons.
- In 2025 Equinet will host an online webinar “Advancing LGBTIQ+ Equality in Europe: The Role of Equality Bodies“, which will launch the report published in 2024, present the report’s main findings, build the capacity of and strengthen Equality Bodies, as well as raise awareness of the work of the Equality Bodies and foster collaboration with key partners to create a safer and better environment for LGBTIQ+ people in Europe. Stay tuned!