Olympic Committee’s ban on trans women in female category | Explained

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently announced that only “biological females” will be allowed to take part in the Olympic Games and other IOC events under the female category, whether individual or team-based, effectively banning transgender women from competing. It stated that eligibility will be determined on the basis of an SRY gene test that all athletes must undergo. The SRY gene, found on the Y chromosome, usually triggers the development of male characteristics. Essentially, the IOC said the test will be conducted once, and if the gene is not found, the athlete will be deemed a “biological female” and allowed to compete.

The IOC claimed the move would ensure a “level playing field” for female athletes by protecting “fairness, safety, and integrity in the female category,” and that it will come into effect for the LA Olympics in 2028. However, there has been widespread criticism of the IOC’s decision. For starters, it comes at a time when instances of discrimination against transgender people are rising globally. There are other considerations as well including whether SRY gene testing is the right way to determine whether someone is a “biological female”, the issue of individuals with intersex traits and whether or not trans women actually have an ‘advantage’ over cisgender female athletes.