Slovakia has amended its constitution to recognize only two sexes, male and female, and imposed restrictions on adoption and surrogate pregnancies, sparking criticism from human rights groups and concerns over its implications for LGBT rights and EU relations.
The UK Supreme Court is hearing a landmark case brought by Scottish campaigners to define 'woman' in law, which could have significant implications for trans rights and women's rights across the UK. The case examines the intersection of the Gender Recognition Act 2004 and the Equality Act 2010, focusing on whether a person with a gender recognition certificate is legally considered a woman under the Equality Act. The outcome could affect the operation of single-sex spaces and services, and potentially lead to legal challenges or calls for legislative reform.
A transgender newsreader reported J.K. Rowling to British police for alleged hate speech after the author made comments on social media, sparking debate on misgendering and women's rights. Rowling rejected the allegation, stating that it's not a crime to hold gender-critical views. The controversy stems from Rowling's past statements on transgender issues, including questioning proposed changes to UK gender recognition laws and expressing views on sex and gender that have divided opinions.
Scotland's highest civil court, the Court of Session, has upheld the UK government's decision to block a landmark gender-recognition law passed by the Scottish parliament. The law, which allowed individuals aged 16 and older to change their gender designation on identity documents through self-declaration, was seen as a significant departure from the rest of the UK, where a medical diagnosis and a minimum age of 18 are required. The ruling highlights the tensions between devolved administrations and the central UK government, fueling frustrations and the independence movement in Scotland. Trans-rights campaigners expressed disappointment, while opponents raised concerns about potential risks and access to single-sex spaces.