The UK Supreme Court ruled on the 16th that the definition of women in the Equality Act refers to 'biological sex.'
The Deputy President of the UK Supreme Court, Lady Hale, stated: 'The court unanimously decided that 'women' and 'sex' in the 2010 Equality Act refer to biological women and biological sex.'
However, the court also pointed out that transgender individuals will not be adversely affected by this landmark decision.
The organization 'For Women Scotland' argued that the rights protected by the Equality Act should be based on individuals' biological sex. The organization challenged the guidelines issued by the Scottish Government. This guideline aligns with a law passed in 2018 aimed at increasing the proportion of women on public boards.
After losing in the Scottish court, 'For Women Scotland' appealed to the Supreme Court in November of last year and finally received a favorable ruling. Cheers erupted outside the court following the decision.
Critics of Scottish law argue that its definition might affect single-sex services for women, such as shelters or hospital wards. However, transgender advocates have claimed that if 'For Women Scotland' prevailed, it could lead to discrimination against transgender individuals.