Law and VSC/DSD: introduction

Published 09/03/2023 - Edited 27/07/2023

This section aims to explain the relationship between Variations of Sex Characteristics (VSCs)/Differences of Sex Development (DSDs) and the law, keeping in mind the complexity of the topic itself and the technicalities involved in any legal process.

The texts can be read in two different ways to offer a picture as complete as possible of the main legal issues regarding VSCs/DSDs. The primary goal is to provide a brief introduction to the legal issues involved (see sections “Relationship between the Law and VSCs/DSDs” and “Law FAQs”), making it a user-friendly text for both the public and specialists. Nonetheless, a certain level of detail is expected, primarily aimed at legal professionals who may need to provide legal assistance or decide related cases (for instance, the sections titled “Legal Review” or “Legal Name and Sex Change Procedure”).

As we aim to ensure that this second section is accessible to all interested parties - intersex individuals, their families, professionals in the social, psychological, and educational fields included - it was drafted using a language that is not overly laden with technicalities, although certain terms and expressions cannot be simplified.