Scotland

By Maryam Ahmad

In a landmark decision, the UK Supreme Court has ruled that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer exclusively to biological sex, thereby excluding transgender women from the legal definition of “woman” under this legislation.

The unanimous ruling stems from a legal challenge by the feminist group For Women Scotland against a 2018 Scottish law that included transgender women in quotas for women’s representation on public boards. The Court determined that such inclusion would render the Equality Act incoherent, as it would create two sub-groups within those who share the protected characteristic of gender reassignment.

Supporters of the ruling, including author J.K. Rowling, hailed it as a victory for women’s rights and legal clarity. Conversely, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups such as Stonewall expressed deep concern, warning that the decision could lead to increased exclusion of transgender individuals from essential services and spaces.

While the ruling clarifies the legal definition of “woman” under the Equality Act, it does not diminish existing protections against discrimination for transgender individuals based on gender reassignment. The practical implications of this decision will depend on future implementation and interpretation by institutions and policymakers.

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

Scotland has passed a law pronouncing period products free for all its citizens. The landmark legislation is the first of its kind in the world. 

The Members of Scottish Parliament, MSPs, have unanimously approved the Bill in November 2020 to combat period poverty

According to a report by BBC, local authorities now have a legal duty to provide free items such as tampons and sanitary pads to “anyone who needs them”.

 The bill, now known as the Period Products Act, was introduced by Labour MSP Monica Lennon, who has advocated to end period poverty since 2016. 

Lennon said: “Local authorities and partner organisations have worked hard to make the legal right to access free period products a reality.

“This is another big milestone for period dignity campaigners and grassroots movements which shows the difference that progressive and bold political choices can make.

“As the cost-of-living crisis takes hold, the Period Products Act is a beacon of hope which shows what can be achieved when politicians come together for the good of the people we serve.”