WIPO Bans Gendered Language Terms
WIPO Bans Gendered Language Terms
WIPO Bans Gendered Language Terms
News summary

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) of the United Nations has implemented new guidelines to prohibit gender-specific terms such as 'Englishman', 'forefathers', and 'man’s best friend', insisting they imply women lack certain skills. Staff are encouraged to use alternatives like 'English person', 'birth attendant', and 'wood chopper'. Critics, including Toby Young of the Free Speech Union, have denounced the initiative as 'Orwellian', arguing that the banning of words to promote a political ideology resembles totalitarianism. WIPO defends the guidelines as a non-prescriptive effort aimed at fostering inclusivity and awareness of language. This decision aligns with broader trends in organizations, such as the British Red Cross, that have faced backlash for similar language policies. WIPO asserts that common sense and clarity should guide the implementation of these new terms.

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