UK Court Bars Trans Women From Single-Sex Spaces

The UK Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the legal definition of 'woman' in the Equality Act 2010 applies only to biological women, excluding transgender women—even those with a Gender Recognition Certificate—from sex-based rights and protections. The decision originated from a case about gender quotas on Scottish public boards but has immediate effects, such as police forces now requiring that searches of transgender women be conducted by male officers. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has directed organizations to update their policies, effectively barring transgender women from single-sex spaces unless unisex or third options are provided. While gender-critical campaigners, including JK Rowling, have welcomed the ruling, trans advocacy groups warn it will further marginalize transgender people, though gender reassignment remains a protected characteristic. The ruling is being seen internationally as part of a broader pushback against transgender inclusion. The practical implications are still unfolding as organizations review and update their policies.