Sweden - April 2024

On 17 April, Parliament passed a new law making it easier for people to change their legally recognized gender in Sweden’s population register. The law was introduced by the Health and Welfare parliamentary committee and passed with 234 votes in favour and 94 against. The legislation ensures that changing legal gender no longer requires a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria but means a shorter consultation with a doctor is sufficient. Additionally, the age limit for legal gender changes was lowered from 18 years to 16 years with a guardian’s approval. Proponents, such as the Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex Rights (Riksförbundet för homosexuellas, bisexuellas, transpersoners, queeras och intersexpersoners rättigheter - RFSL), say the law can contribute to improved personal safety for transgender people. The law will enter into force in July 2025.  

Sources: Sveriges Riksdag, RFSL, The Local (1), The Local (2), Svenska Dagbladet