On April 16, 2025 — The UK Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the term “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 refers exclusively to biological females, thereby excluding transgender women from this legal definition, even if they possess a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC)
The case originated from a legal challenge by the advocacy group For Women Scotland against the Scottish government’s 2018 Gender Representation on Public Boards Act.This legislation aimed to ensure 50% female representation on public boards and included transgender women with GRCs in its definition of “woman.”The Supreme Court’s decision overturns this inclusion, asserting that such an interpretation would render the Equality Act incoherent and impracticable to operate.
While the ruling clarifies the legal definition of “woman” as based on biological sex, the Court emphasized that it does not strip transgender individuals of protections against discrimination under UK law.Transgender people remain protected under provisions related to gender reassignment in the Equality Act.
The decision has elicited mixed reactions.Supporters, including author J.K. Rowling, hailed it as a victory for women’s rights and the preservation of single-sex spaces.Conversely, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups such as Stonewall and Amnesty International expressed concern, viewing the ruling as a setback for transgender rights and warning of potential increases in discrimination against trans individuals.
Politically, the ruling provides clarity amid ongoing debates over gender identity and legal definitions.The UK government welcomed the decision, stating it offers legal certainty for institutions and reinforces the protection of single-sex spaces.The Scottish government acknowledged the ruling and indicated it would assess its implications for future legislation.
This landmark ruling is poised to influence future policies and discussions surrounding gender identity, equality, and the rights of transgender individuals in the UK.
