The Gender Equality Bill has been amended following intense public debate, particularly over the use of the term “inclusive gender”, which was understood to encompass identities beyond male and female.

The draft law sparked strong reactions, especially from religious groups, conservative circles, and interest organizations.

The majority introduced 22 amendments, removing from the draft the terms “inclusive,” “gender diversity,” “gender identity,” and “gender expression.”

The official argument is that the law must remain clear, practicable, and avoid confusion in institutional application.

Another reason cited was the lack of public consultation — religious communities claimed they had not been previously notified, while human rights organizations insisted that the law should maintain protection against discrimination.

The revised draft is expected to be voted on in its new version, shifting the focus toward the traditional concept of gender, while avoiding the newer dimensions of identity that have stirred controversy.

Groups advocating for LGBTIQ+ rights reacted strongly, calling the move a retreat from non-discrimination principles.

Meanwhile, the Albanian Coalition for Family and Life issued a statement arguing that the bill risks undermining the traditional family, violating human dignity, limiting freedom of belief and expression, and destabilizing the social structure.

The draft law has been submitted to Parliament and, together with the proposed amendments, will now be discussed in parliamentary committees.

Its plenary vote is scheduled for October 30.