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UK Supreme Court Defines ‘Woman’ by Biological Sex in Landmark Ruling

The decision under the Equality Act 2010 permits exclusion of transgender women from single-sex spaces if deemed proportionate, with ministers and the EHRC preparing guidance as protests erupt nationwide.

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer looks on at Downing Street in London, Britain, April 4, 2025. Eddie Mulholland/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

Overview

  • The UK Supreme Court ruled that under the Equality Act 2010, 'woman' and 'sex' are defined by biological criteria, resolving years of legal ambiguity.
  • Transgender women with Gender Recognition Certificates can be excluded from single-sex spaces if such exclusions are proportionate and lawful.
  • Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson publicly endorsed the ruling, emphasizing its clarity for service providers and public bodies.
  • Protests against the ruling occurred across major UK cities, with vandalism of statues and controversial placards sparking widespread condemnation.
  • The Equality and Human Rights Commission is working to issue detailed guidance, urging employers, schools, and other organizations to review their policies to comply with the clarified legal framework.