Self-Determination Act: Over 1,000 applications for gender change!

Self-Determination Act: Over 1,000 applications for gender change!

A lot has happened in Germany in the last few months when it comes to gender self-determination. In large cities in Hesse in particular, over 1,000 people exercise their right to change their gender registration. This was made possible by the new Self-Determination Act (SBGG), which came into force on November 1, 2024. This means that transgender, intersex and non-binary people can now change their gender entry and their first name without having to rely on medical reports or judicial decisions. Just a declaration to the registry office is enough to start the process, reports Allgäu newspaper.

In cities like Darmstadt and Frankfurt the rush is clearly noticeable. In Darmstadt, 120 people have already changed their gender record, with some first names such as “Diamond Caramel” and “Pudding” being rejected. Over 450 applications were registered in the banking metropolis of Frankfurt. There are also encouraging figures in Wiesbaden and Kassel: In Wiesbaden, over 260 registrations were processed without a single first name being rejected. Kassel recorded 280 registrations. The Society for the German Language supports the registry offices in questions of doubt to ensure that the names comply with the legal requirements.

Wait times and approval rates

The prerequisite for the change is a three-month waiting period after registration. This is intended to prevent people from impulsively changing their gender without thinking about the consequences. In newborns, she explains Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection, about 90% of the names submitted are approved. In comparison, the approval rate for names chosen as part of the SBGG is 60 to 70%. These are names that should not be ridiculed and must serve the good of people. While “Nyx,” “Jekyll,” and “Dakota” were approved, first names like “Skeleton” and “Murmel” were not approved.

According to the SBGG, the Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth the right to sexual self-determination – a cornerstone of human dignity. The federal government estimates that around 4,000 applications will be submitted annually under the SBGG, with reports at the start of implementation in 2024 estimating between 6,000 and 15,000 applications. The law is expected to be evaluated within five years of its entry into force.

Looking into the future

Changing the gender entry and first names is a right step into the future. The SBGG replaces the outdated transsexual law of 1980, which often imposed unnecessary hurdles on people due to its strict requirements. The new regulation will significantly simplify the process of self-determination and make access easier. Gone are the days when people had to question their worth or identity just to have their gender identity recognized.

The positive response in Hessian cities shows that people care deeply about feeling self-determined. Whether “Pudding” or “Nyx”, the diversity of names reflects the colorful range of identities that need to be respected and valued. Cologne is eagerly awaiting how these developments will continue to unfold.