The world association Fina has set new rules for trans people in swimming competitions.
According to these rules, they are only allowed to enter women’s competitions if they have completed their gender reassignment by the age of twelve. The Fina has also set up a working group to work on a so-called “open” competition category. The decision of the extraordinary association congress has already caused criticism on social media.
Criticism of participation by trans people
The topic had recently attracted attention, especially in connection with the American Lia Thomas. She became the first trans woman to win the highest level of college athletics in March.
Critics then described Thomas’ participation in women’s races as unfair. They have a biological advantage over their competitors, they argued. On the other hand, people who defend Thomas in particular and trans people in general said: Physical characteristics are never fair, most top athletes have some advantage and that is why they are so good at their respective disciplines.
At the Fina Congress on Sunday, 71.5 percent of the participants voted in favor of the new set of rules. The event had previously featured speeches by working groups made up of athletes, scientists, medical professionals and human rights experts.
