UK’s Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that transgender women are not legally considered women under the country’s Equality Act, stating the law defines “woman” and “sex” based on biology.
The decision deals a blow to transgender rights advocates and could reshape access to single-sex spaces, maternity policies, and anti-discrimination protections.
In a unanimous judgment, the court concluded the 2010 Equality Act, which bans discrimination, uses “biological sex” to define women.
The ruling came from a case in Scotland over whether trans women should be classified as female under the law.
It comes amid heated UK debates over balancing transgender rights with protections for women.
Deputy Supreme Court President Lord Hodge stressed the decision was “not a triumph” for one group over another.
“Trans people continue to have protections under the Equality Act’s ‘gender reassignment’ category,” said Hodge.
Still, Hodge acknowledged trans individuals as a “vulnerable and often harassed minority” while noting women’s historic fight for equality.
Campaigners from For Women Scotland (FWS), which brought the case, applauded the decision.
FWS Co-Director Susan Smith called it a win for “protections based on biological differences.”
“Services and spaces designated for women are for women,” said Smith outside the court.
“This isn’t about prejudice. It’s about recognizing real distinctions.”
Trans rights groups urged calm, pointing out that the ruling does not erase existing safeguards.
Scottish Trans (ST), an advocacy organization, warned against overstating the decision’s impact.
“Trans people remain protected from discrimination,” said ST on social media.
Amnesty International UK echoed that while calling for analysis of potential consequences.
The judgment also affects trans men, as the court clarified “sex” under the law means biological sex.
Legal experts say the decision may influence policies on domestic violence shelters, sports, and workplaces.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, which faced pressure to clarify the law, avoided being forced to take a stand ahead of elections.
Lord Hodge emphasized the court’s role was to interpret, not create, laws.
“Parliament must decide how to balance these rights,” said Hodge.
The ruling leaves Britain’s Equality Act intact but narrows its application in sex-based cases.
Trans advocates say they will push for legislative updates, while critics argue biology must anchor certain protections.
As tensions persist, the decision sets a precedent but not an endpoint in the clash over gender identity and women’s rights.
