Petra De Sutter, born on June tenth, nineteen sixty-three, is a prominent Belgian politician and a distinguished physician specializing in gynecology. She has made significant strides in both her medical and political careers, becoming a trailblazer as the first transgender minister in Europe. Her journey into the political arena began after a successful tenure as a professor of gynecology at Ghent University, where she also served as the head of the Department of Reproductive Medicine at Ghent University Hospital.
A member of the Groen party, De Sutter was elected as a Member of the European Parliament in two thousand nineteen, a role she held until two thousand twenty. During this time, she was recognized for her commitment to public service and advocacy for progressive policies. Following her term in the European Parliament, she was appointed as the federal Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium in Alexander De Croo's government, where she oversaw public administration and public enterprises.
In addition to her political achievements, De Sutter's academic contributions have been invaluable. After her term as Deputy Prime Minister, she was elected rector of Ghent University, further solidifying her influence in both education and governance. Her unique background and experiences have positioned her as a leading figure in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in politics.