The State Duma of the Russian Federation may submit a bill on gender reassignment that is not linked to congenital physical anomalies to the relevant sections for further confirmation, according to Kommersant, which cites a familiar source. The report notes that lawyers and medical professionals who work with transgender people have voiced strong criticism of the draft law. They urged the document to be withdrawn from consideration, arguing that the proposed changes would infringe the right to medical care and life, and would also be an attempt to impose an ideology on society, rather than address medical needs.
Activists emphasised that the bill appears to discriminate against and restrict access to medical services for individuals who have been medically diagnosed with transsexualism. They also claimed that the proposals rest on information that is not backed by a sufficient evidence base and do not contribute to the stated aims of the legislation. The criticism centers on the potential social and legal consequences for transgender people, including barriers to essential health care and medical oversight.
Former State Duma Deputy Anatoly Wasserman has publicly suggested that the widespread use of hormonal therapies and surgical procedures for gender reassignment may be linked to adolescent body dysmorphic disorder. This assertion adds another layer to the ongoing debate, highlighting concerns about gender-affirming treatments and their long-term implications. As discussions continue, advocates for transgender rights urge careful consideration of medical ethics, patient autonomy, and evidence-based practice, while lawmakers weigh how best to balance public policy with individual rights.