Same-sex couple takes fight for equality to Slovakian court
Summary
Two Slovakian lawyers are challenging their government in court after authorities refused to register their same-sex marriage, arguing the move violates EU law. The case has intensified tensions over LGBTQ rights in Slovakia, where Prime Minister Robert Fico has pushed constitutional changes and a harder line against equal rights.
Key Points
- Slovakian lawyers Ivan Novotny and Metod Spacek are taking their government to court after it refused to register their marriage, which was performed in Austria in 2020.
- They argue Slovakia is violating a European Court ruling requiring EU states to recognise same-sex marriages registered in another member state.
- Prime Minister Robert Fico’s government has tightened LGBTQ rights, amended the constitution on sex and marriage, and insisted national law overrides EU law.
- The case comes amid low public support for LGBTQ equality in Slovakia and broader concerns that discrimination could worsen if Fico remains in power.
