Transsexuals and the right to marry

Abstract

Quintessentially, this thesis approaches the subject of transsexualism from various perspectives. First, the actual problem of transsexualism is discussed and an overview of the different theories by various expert psychologists is thereby illustrated. In order to specify in exact terms what this phenomenon is about, various other sexual anomalies are outlined and a distinction between these and transsexualism is made. In order to understand better what a transsexual goes through, the physical treatment to which he submits himself and the effects of such treatment are illustrated in some detail. A discussion on the civil rights of transsexuals follows and various cases are quoted as an illustration of the ever growing phenomenon. Transsexuals claim discrimination regarding issues of birth certificate corrections, employment, parental rights and marriage. An emphasis is made on the question of marriages of transsexuals both prior to surgery and post-operatively. In conclusion, the thesis presents the limitations of our law where transsexuals are concerned and suggests possible amendments.