Slovak Government Objects to Dutch Parliament's Resolution on EU Court Complaint

Strategic Insights -

The Slovak government has responded strongly to a resolution of the Dutch parliament calling for a complaint to be lodged against Slovakia with the EU Court of Justice over recent constitutional changes. The changes, which enshrine recognition of only biologically determined sexes, have been deemed discriminatory by the Dutch lawmakers. In a statement, the Slovak Government Office expressed concern that such complaints could undermine the unity of the EU and open the door to unhealthy value judgements.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Slovak government has objected to a Dutch parliament resolution calling for a complaint to be lodged against Slovakia with the EU Court of Justice over constitutional changes deemed discriminatory.
  • The changes to the Slovak constitution include the recognition of only biologically determined sexes, which the Dutch parliament calls discriminatory.
  • The Slovak Government Office released a statement expressing concern that EU member states should respect each other's differences and traditions, rather than engaging in value judgements through lawsuits.
  • The European Commission had previously expressed concern over the changes to the Slovak constitution shortly after they were approved.
  • A spokesman for the EU executive stated that EU law is superior to national laws, including the constitution, which implies that the changes may not align with EU principles.

Statistics:

  • The Slovak government published a statement on October 21, responding to the Dutch parliament's resolution.
  • The Slovak constitutional changes were approved last month, with the recognition of only biologically determined sexes.
  • The Dutch parliament's resolution includes a reference to Article 259 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which allows a country to take a case to the EU court if another member state fails to fulfil its obligations under the Treaty.
  • The European Commission expressed concern over the Slovak constitutional changes shortly after they were approved.

Sources:

  • CTK news agency, October 21.
  • Slovak Government Office statement, October 21.