French trans citizens now allowed to change their name and gender without surgery

French trans citizens now allowed to change their name and gender without surgery.

https://www.gaystarnews.com/article/frances-new-law-allows-pre-op-transgender-citizens-change-name-gender-marker/

In 2016 France implemented a new legal gender recognition procedure. This, similar to procedures in countries like Denmark, Malta, Ireland, and Norway, no longer required trans citizens to prove sterilization or have proof of medical treatment in order to change their legal name or gender. This also makes gender recognition more accessible to citizens, especially emancipated minors. However, it is not perfect as individuals are still not able to make these changes on their own and are still required to be legally recognized by a court. Regardless, the decision is a step in the right direction. Evelyne Paradis, ILGA-Europe Executive Director insists that, “the fight will go on for full equality and respect for trans people in France”.

           As one stepping stone on the path towards full equality and acceptance of the French trans community, this event brings them closer to bodily autonomy. This legislation is a good example of the French mindset towards topics such as LGBTQ+ rights. It is slowly inching towards self-determination but is not quite getting there. While seemingly extremely progressive from the outside, the French tradition of universalism is holding it back. In this case, a trans person is able to legally change their name or gender, but only if the state approves of it. Regardless, compared to the United States this law places France ahead when concerning trans rights. Many states in the U.S. still require gender reassignment therapy as well as hormone and psychological therapy.