In a massive step back for trans rights, FINA has placed new restrictions on transgender women competing in swimming competitions.
On 19 June, the world’s swimming governing body announced its new gender inclusion policy. Under the new set of rules, trans women who transition after the age of 12 would be effectively banned from competing in events.
Three groups collaborated on the policy after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) encouraged more research regarding performance advantage instead of relying on testosterone levels.
Before they came to an agreement, the organisation’s congress was presented with information supporting the policy – which was led by both medical and legal experts as well as athletes Cate Campbell and Summer Sanders.