The Spektra Association has noted that the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council, in its second periodic report regarding Montenegro, appreciates the introduction of the Draft Law on Legal Recognition of Gender Identity Based on Self-Determination, while expressing disappointment over the postponement in its enactment.

“It is crucial to enhance the legal framework for ensuring equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals by passing the Draft Law on Legal Recognition of Gender Identity Based on Self-Determination. This law would provide a definitive ban on forced medical sterilization or other inhumane medical procedures,” highlights the non-governmental organization (NGO).

The association underscored that the passage of the Law on Legal Recognition of Gender Identity Based on Self-Determination not only reinforces Montenegro’s legislative framework and democracy but also delivers a clear signal that it rejects the influence of global right-wing movements and firmly stands with all its citizens.

The Spektra Association pointed out that the UN Human Rights Council’s report is yet another indication that Montenegro must adopt the Law on Legal Recognition of Gender Identity Based on Self-Determination to uphold human rights.

“This further validates that the regulation of self-determination rights in Montenegro is a topic of discussion in international forums. Montenegro has the chance to make a bold statement to advance human rights, especially at a time when they are being threatened by regressive forces worldwide,” they stated in a media release.

The NGO reminded that 48 credible civil society organizations and activists in Montenegro endorse this law, including young representatives in the Youth Parliament of Montenegro, alongside 137 organizations and activists in the region, over 100 esteemed academics, 15 European parliamentarians, and various European organizations such as TGEU, ILGA Europe, IGLYO, and ERA, which collectively represent over 900 member organizations.

“All international assessments, including the European Commission report, the CPT, the US State Department report, and CEDAW, regretfully indicate that the right to self-determination is still unattainable in Montenegro, which has actively called for its adoption in 2024, initially anticipated by the end of the previous year.

“Through the adoption of progressive legal frameworks, Montenegro has the opportunity to demonstrate vision and proactive measures in the global arena, rather than merely fulfilling the minimum standards expected during the EU integration process,” the NGO concludes.

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