"In line with the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights... the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe has urged member states 'to guarantee the full legal recognition of a person's gender reassignment in all areas of life, in particular by making possible the change of name and gender in official documents in a quick, transparent and accessible way," says a letter the CoE Commissioner for Human Rights, Nils Muiznieks, sent this month to Public Administration Minister Arsen Bauk and Parliamentary Gender Equality Committee chair Nansi Tireli.
"It is my position that legal gender recognition should not require infertility or compulsory medical treatment which may seriously impair the autonomy, health or well-being of the individuals concerned. Any requirement of a medical diagnosis should be reviewed with a view to eliminating obstacles to the effective enjoyment by trans persons of their human rights, including the right to self-determination concerning one's gender."
Muiznieks also said divorce should not be a necessary condition for gender recognition "as it can have a disproportionate effect on the right to family life."
"I strongly encourage your efforts to bring the Croatian legislation in this field in line with European standards. I would very much appreciate to be informed about the progress of the reform and look forward to a constructive dialogue with you and your Government."