The European Commission expressed regret that the amendment to the Constitution of the Slovak Republic does not take its concerns into account

Bratislava – The European Commission (EC) expressed regret on Monday that the adopted amendment to the Constitution of the Slovak Republic does not take its concerns into account. These concerns were mainly related to how the proposed changes to Article Seven relate to EU law. It also added that while the regulation of substantive issues of family law remains the prerogative of member states, their implementation should not undermine the fundamental principle of EU law regarding non-discrimination. This follows from a statement provided to TASR by Katarína Touquet Jaremová from the Representation of the European Commission in Slovakia.

“Let us remind ourselves that EU law takes precedence over national law, including national constitutional provisions. We express regret that the adopted legal text does not take into account the concerns expressed by the European Commission. Consultations were also held with the Venice Commission, which recently issued an opinion containing similar concerns,” said Katarína Touquet Jaremová.

The EU advocates for equality that includes diversity, within which all its citizens can be themselves and live without discrimination

She declared that the EU advocates for equality that includes diversity, within which all its citizens can be themselves and live without discrimination. “While the regulation of substantive issues of family law remains the prerogative of member states, their implementation should not undermine the fundamental principle of Union law regarding non-discrimination,” she added.

As she pointed out, the EC takes note of the adoption of changes and amendments to the Constitution of the Slovak Republic by the Slovak parliament. “We understand that the next step is in the hands of the Slovak president,” she added.

The Slovak parliament approved the government amendment to the Constitution of the Slovak Republic on Friday (September 26). This will enshrine two genders – male and female – into it. The constitution will also include the guarantee of equality between men and women in remuneration for work performed. The constitutional law also regulates child adoption and the educational process. The proposal aims to achieve Slovakia’s sovereignty in value and cultural-ethical issues. (September 29)