Federation of German Catholic Youth supports bill promoting gender self-determination for children

Improvements in the registration of the sex of minors are urgently needed.

The BDKJ Federal Board supports the aim of the Federal Government to replace the discriminatory Transsexual Act (TSG) with the Self-Determination Act (SBGG) and to strengthen the gender self-determination of affected persons. "The de-bureaucratisation and recognition of gender diversity by law is urgently needed to ensure trans*, intersex and non-binary persons the acceptance of their gender identity also formally and to break down patriarchal thought patterns," explains Daniela Hottenbacher, BDKJ Federal Executive. "It is time for every person to make a change to their gender entry and first name themselves according to their gender identity."

 

Call for deletion of restriction for minors and creation of low-threshold counselling services

However, the BDKJ Federal Executive Committee criticises the present draft bill with regard to the restrictions for minors and demands decisive improvements. In particular, the required consent of legal representatives to change the civil status of minors is objected to: "It is extremely disappointing that the draft is not consistent enough in some points to strengthen the self-determination of marginalised persons and to eliminate discriminatory regulations," emphasises Hottenbacher. Both the Constitution and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child protect the right to self-determination of minors, including their gender identity. "The lack of possibility for minors from the age of 14 to change their civil status entry independently of their parents contradicts the right of the person concerned to self-determination. Therefore, we demand the complete deletion of this restriction as well as the creation of low-threshold counselling services for minors, but also in particular for legal representatives*, but without these having any effect on the declaration of the minor."

Deletion of the domestic law and the intended regulations in public and private spaces for more trans* acceptance

The BDKJ federal board also demands a complete deletion of §6 in the draft law, which provides for the explicit mention of domestic law and the regulation of one's own affairs in public and private spaces, as it reveals a trans-hostile and discriminatory attitude. Such an approach would massively contribute to insecurity and exacerbate fears of young people who may be less settled due to power relations. The SBGG should instead provide clear measures for equality and the removal of barriers and social participation for all people.

Appeal for comprehensive guarantee of self-determination and equality for persons of all ages

The BDKJ is convinced that children and young people are experts of themselves and can stand up for themselves regardless of their age. It is therefore essential in terms of self-determination and equality that minors have the opportunity to determine their gender identity in a self-determined way without being hindered by their guardians. "Self-determination is an essential factor that enables children and young people to find their identity and live it authentically," explains Daniela Hottenbacher. "Self-determination and equality are not concessions, but inalienable rights. We are committed to ensuring that these rights are comprehensively guaranteed for all people."

Translated from Press Release