Supreme Court Rules Biological Sex Defines Women, Impacts Trans Rights

The UK Supreme Court has ruled that the terms 'woman' and 'sex' in the Equality Act 2010 refer to biological sex, not gender identity, setting a precedent that is expected to impact access to single-sex spaces such as NHS wards, sports teams, and public services. The decision, welcomed by women's rights campaigners, requires public bodies like the NHS and police to revise their guidance and policies to reflect this interpretation. While supporters hail the ruling as a victory for clarity and sex-based rights, critics—including LGBTQ+ groups and trans activists—warn it could erode protections for transgender people and increase anxiety and uncertainty within the community. The court emphasized that anti-discrimination protections for trans people based on gender reassignment remain in place, but clarified that these do not equate to being treated as biological women under equality law. The ruling has prompted both relief among those advocating for sex-based rights and deep concern among trans advocates who see it as a potential setback for human rights. Political leaders, such as the Scottish Greens, have vowed to continue supporting trans rights and resist what they describe as a culture war against the trans community.