UK Supreme Court to Rule on Legal Definition of ‘Woman’

Britain’s Supreme Court is set to deliver a landmark ruling Wednesday that could redefine who is legally considered a “woman” under UK law, with major implications for sex-based rights and transgender protections.

The case stems from a legal challenge by campaign group For Women Scotland (FWS), opposing the inclusion of trans women with Gender Recognition Certificates (GRCs) in laws designed to promote female representation. FWS argues that only individuals born female should qualify for such protections under the Equality Act 2010.

The Scottish government contends that trans women with GRCs are legally women and should enjoy equal protections. The ruling will clarify whether the Equality Act’s definition of “woman” includes those who have legally transitioned.

The outcome could affect access to single-sex spaces like shelters and influence broader legal and policy decisions on gender identity across the UK.