Canton of Zurich does not want gender reassignment surgery for minors

Countries such as Great Britain and Finland do not allow irreversible operations, as the Zurich Health Directorate announced on Monday. In Switzerland, however, there are no clear rules. Zurich is also calling for puberty blockers to only be dispensed as part of scientific studies.

The canton is basing its demands on an expert opinion. Parents of transgender adolescents had expressed reservations that treatments were being carried out too hastily.

The Health Directorate is now also introducing quality standards. The focus is on scientific monitoring and the establishment of an "interdisciplinary indication board". This is to ensure the long-term well-being of those affected.