Slovak National Party Welcomes Constitutional Amendment on Gender Definition

Bratislava, 26 September (TASR) – The coalition Slovak National Party (SNS) has welcomed the newly approved amendment to the Constitution, calling it a fundamental and historic step, TASR learnt from party spokesperson Zuzana Skopcova on Friday. According to the party, Slovakia has become one of the first European Union-member states to clearly define the male and female genders in its constitution. "We also appreciate the strengthening of the principle of equal pay for women, including the consideration of educational processes and opportunities for their engagement in society," the party stated. SNS expressed gratitude to the lawmakers who supported the amendment. "Slovakia has once again shown that reason, values and principles can prevail even within the European Union," the party added. SNS declared its intention to continue promoting such "fundamental issues" and to ensure that these values are further reflected in social and legal life. On Friday, Parliament approved an amendment enshrining in the Constitution the definition of two genders – male and female. The amendment also introduces a guarantee of equality between men and women in terms of pay for work performed. It further addresses child adoption and the educational process. Of the 99 MPs present, 90 voted in favour, seven were against, two did not vote, and none abstained. mf/df