The UK Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the term “woman” under the 2010 Equality Act refers specifically to biological sex, not legal or certificated gender. The decision concludes a significant legal battle brought by campaign group For Women Scotland, challenging the Scottish government’s stance that transgender individuals with a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) should be treated as their acquired gender for the purpose of sex-based protections.
Judge Lord Hodge clarified that the ruling does not diminish the rights of transgender individuals, who remain protected under the Act’s provisions for gender reassignment, including protection from discrimination and harassment. However, the judgement affirms that sex-based rights — such as access to single-sex spaces — apply only to biological women.
Campaigners welcomed the verdict as a confirmation of “common sense,” arguing it protects the integrity of female-only services. First Minister John Swinney said the Scottish government accepted the decision and would consider its implications, emphasizing the goal of protecting everyone’s rights.
The ruling is expected to influence policy and guidance across Britain, particularly in areas like healthcare, shelters, and sports. UK officials and Conservative leaders hailed the decision as a legal and societal clarification, while stressing that it does not undermine protections for trans individuals.
