UK Supreme Court rules that women are defined by biological sex

London, United Kingdom — In a landmark decision that reignites the debate on gender identity and law, the UK Supreme Court has ruled that, in legal terms, the term "woman" refers exclusively to people born with the biological female sex. The decision was made on Tuesday (16) after analyzing a case presented by a women's rights organization, which has the public support of writer J.K. Rowling.

The case was brought against the registration of policies that allowed trans people to be classified as women in specific legal contexts, including women-only shelters and spaces supporting victims of sexual violence. The central argument was that such policies could compromise the safety and rights of biological women.

The Supreme Court ruling states that legal recognition of gender identity should not override the biological understanding of “woman” in certain areas where the distinction of sex is considered essential. The decision highlights that equal rights cannot override protections based on biological sex.

The writer J.K. Rowling, who has been vocal on issues related to sex and gender for years, briefly commented on social media: “Today is a victory for women who need protection, clarity and truth.”

LGBTQ+ activist groups strongly criticized the ruling, calling the decision “regressive” and a “step backwards for trans rights in the UK.” Feminist organizations, meanwhile, celebrated the outcome as a milestone in the fight for women’s rights and the preservation of safe spaces.

The decision, although restricted to the United Kingdom, is already beginning to generate international repercussions and should influence legislative debates in other European countries.

Suprema Corte do Reino Unido define que mulher é apenas nascida biologicamente: Caso foi levantado por organização de defesa dos direitos das mulheres, que possui entre seus apoiadores a escritora de 'Harry Potter' J.K. Rowling. pic.twitter.com/XRGE6BKv0b — K13 News (@K13News) April 17, 2025