Title: The Supreme Federal Court confirms the meaning of “woman” based on biological gender, causing a major impact on gender benefits and space for women.
On 16 April 2025, the UK Supreme Court handed down a landmark ruling, ruling that the definition of ‘women’ in the 2010 Equality Act should be based on biological gender. This could bring significant changes to the way gender-based benefits are applied, particularly in women’s spaces.
Important decision by the Supreme Federal Court
In the ruling, Lord Hodge said the Supreme Court judges agreed that the terms “women” and “gender” in the Equality Act 2010 referred to both “biological females” and “biological gender”. The court noted that while there were strong views on both sides, the ruling did not represent a victory for either party, but rather an important step forward in protecting the rights of women and transgender communities.
This decision follows a long-running legal case between the Scottish Government and campaign group For Women Scotland (FWS), over whether a person who holds a gender recognition certificate (GRC) is a woman who can be recognised as a woman under equality law.
The rights of women and transgender communities
The Supreme Court said that the protection of women’s rights should still be prioritized in women’s spaces, such as locker rooms, prisons and support centers for victims of sexual violence. However, the court also emphasized that the transgender community remains protected against gender-based discrimination and harassment, and their rights are not harmed.
The FWS group has asked the court to reject the recognition of transgender people as women in gender-based laws, especially in situations such as recruitment, sports and feminist organizations. They believe this will threaten the rights of biological women, especially feminist and lesbian groups.
Reaction from women’s and transgender groups
Following the ruling’s publication, feminist groups celebrated, with many emphasizing that the decision was a victory for women’s rights. However, some transgender rights groups criticized the ruling, claiming that it was the result of a movement by anti-transgender transgender networks and related global wings.
Political leaders have also had strong reactions. Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch welcomed the ruling, saying it was a victory for women and had helped end the controversy over whether women could have “penises”. Meanwhile, Mims Davies, the opposition minister for women, also hailed the decision as a “victory for reason”.
Impact on laws and public services
This decision could have a major impact on the provision of public services and spaces for women, including hospitals, care homes and sports clubs. The Government has committed to protecting women-only spaces, such as toilets and changing rooms, based on biological gender.
Meanwhile, the LGB Alliance and lesbian rights groups said the ruling was an important victory in the battle for lesbian rights to protect lesbian rights, especially in the context of growing attacks from proponents of sexual theories.
Conclude
The Supreme Court’s decision represents a major turning point in the long-running debate over women’s and transgender rights. While opinions differ, it is a decision that could have a profound impact on gender equality and how public services serve people in the future.
