World Netball Ban Transgender Women in Women’s International Competition
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Published by: Dimphotsentle Pule
World Netball has introduced a new participation and inclusion policy, effective immediately, that prohibits transgender women from competing in women’s international netball events. The decision was made following extensive consultations and aims to ensure fairness and safety in the sport.
According to World Netball, international women’s netball is considered a “gender affected activity,” prompting the need for a policy that prioritizes fairness and safety at this level of competition. The policy restricts participation in women’s netball to individuals identified as female at birth, regardless of gender identity, or transgender athletes who can demonstrate that they have not experienced the biological effects of testosterone.
The governing body emphasized that its decision was based on robust scientific research published in peer-reviewed journals and consulted with experts and members before finalizing the policy.
While World Netball will review the policy annually, national governing bodies have the flexibility to modify or opt out of these guidelines based on their own criteria for participation.
Other sports organizations, including swimming, rugby, athletics, cycling, and cricket, have implemented similar bans or restrictions on transgender women in women’s competition, citing concerns over fairness and competitive integrity.
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