Legal Dimensions of Gender: UK’s Highest Court Evaluates ‘Woman’ Definition
The UK Supreme Court is currently hearing a case that challenges the definition of “woman” in relation to gender recognition laws.
This case revolves around the legal implications of the Gender Recognition Act (GRA), which allows individuals to obtain a gender recognition certificate (GRC) and change their legal gender.
Campaign group For Women Scotland is challenging the broader legal interpretation that includes trans women (those who have transitioned legally) under the category of “women” under Scottish law, particularly in public board representation.
The group argues that the definition should strictly refer to biological women, based on sex rather than gender identity, which they claim undermines sex-based protections for women.
The outcome of this appeal is expected to have a significant impact on how gender is recognized legally, particularly in relation to policies that aim to promote women’s representation in public life.