World Rugby To Review Transgender Policy
World Rugby will host what it says is a ‘ground-breaking’ forum in London which will pave the way for a comprehensive review on rugby’s policies relating to transgender players.
The sport’s governing body says it will consult with a host of experts in the fields of sports science, biology, medicine, ethics and law, as well as voices from the global women’s game in order to ensure its policies are ‘fit-for-purpose in the modern sporting and societal landscape’.
World Rugby also says that it will take opinions from the elite levels of the game into account via a questionnaire sent out to players.
“There is growing recognition of the importance of autonomy of gender identity in society and all sports are currently evaluating their policies to ensure that they are fit-for-purpose in the modern sporting and societal landscape,” said Sir Bill Beaumont, Chairman, World Rugby. “Rugby is no different and this forum makes it possible to explore the best available evidence and hear the relevant expert opinions.”
The governing body points out that recent research suggests a reduction in testosterone does not lead to a proportionate reduction in the strength and power of athletes, and suggests the sport will seek to find a policy that mitigates player welfare and risk. It also says that policy will have to reflecting World Rugby’s ‘mission of inclusivity while promoting player welfare.’
Beaumont said: “World Rugby’s vision is ‘a sport for all, true to its values’ and we are committed to exploring the evidence from experts in the field of biology and medicine, together with insights provided by leading legal, ethical and social minds, to determine whether the current guidelines are appropriate for all participants.
“Importantly, we are undertaking an extensive consultation process that includes obtaining the perspectives of players who will be directly affected by this policy in both elite and community rugby. This is important in achieving transparency and buy-in.”
World Rugby Chief Medical Officer Éanna Falvey said: “Sports organisations and the medical community alike appreciate that this is a complex area to negotiate. It is especially complex in a contact sport where size, strength and power can be influential.
“By bringing together the world’s leading experts for the first time at our forum we will be able to consider all evidence, considerations and viewpoints as we move towards developing an updated policy that is proportional, appropriate and good for all.”
Presently, World Rugby’s position on this issue is to follow the IOC’s policy, but after the forum will adopt an ‘evidence-based’ policy on the issue.
