UN experts call on UK to uphold equal protection for women, girls and trans people

A group of independent United Nations human rights experts has urged the UK Government to ensure that its ongoing review of statutory guidance under the Equality Act aligns with international human rights obligations and delivers equal protections for all women, girls and trans people. 

In a statement issued on Friday, the experts welcomed the UK Government’s public commitment to proceed with the review “with the necessary care and deliberation” to comply fully with both domestic and international law. They stressed that this is an opportunity to reaffirm the UK’s longstanding dedication to equality, dignity and the rule of law. 

“The outcome of the review must enable transgender people to lead safe and dignified lives, while continuing to uphold robust protections for all women and girls against discrimination and violence,” the experts said. 

“International experts couldn’t be clearer: trans inclusion is a vital human rights standard that the UK must uphold." Trans+ Solidarity Alliance

The group highlighted the UK’s binding obligations under core international human rights treaties - including those safeguarding equality, privacy and non-discrimination - and warned against legal frameworks that permit routine exclusion or require discretionary verification of sex based on appearance or stereotypes. They said such approaches could raise “serious concerns under international human rights law” and harm not only transgender people but also anyone perceived not to conform with dominant gender stereotypes. 

Emphasising that the protection of trans rights need not conflict with the safety and rights of women and girls, the experts pointed to comparative international experience showing that inclusive, rights-respecting legal frameworks can maintain legal certainty and strong protections for all. 

The statement was signed by a group of independent experts and working groups appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, including specialists on discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and on discrimination against women and girls.

A Trans+ Solidarity Alliance spokesperson said that: “International experts couldn’t be clearer: trans inclusion is a vital human rights standard that the UK must uphold.

“We hope this government will listen and ensure trans people are protected and not excluded by our legal framework.”