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  • Essay / The inclusion of transgender athletes in professional sports

    Table of ContentsLegal and policy considerationsSocial and ethical considerationsCounterargumentDiscussionSolutionsConclusionThe presence of transgender athletes in professional sports has become a controversial topic in recent decades due to recognition world of LGBTQ+ rights. The debate around this issue focuses on transgender rights, the limits of science in its influence on biology, and the inconsistency of policies and rules to provide a clear solution. This essay argues that transgender women should be allowed to compete in professional sports based on their gender identity, under certain conditions established by sports governing bodies that prioritize equality and integrity in the world of sport. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayLegal and policy considerationsThe International Olympic Committee (IOC), one of the most respected sports governing bodies, announced in 2004 that transgender people could compete if they underwent gender confirmation surgery, obtained legal recognition of their gender, and underwent hormone treatment for at least 2 years. In 2016, the policy was updated to remove the requirement for surgery, but it stated that identification as a non-biological sex must have been reported for at least 4 years. Additionally, transgender women must maintain blood testosterone levels below 10 nmol/L for 12 months prior to competition (Alice-Jones et al. 711). Although the IOC's policy was criticized, it was followed by many other governing bodies of various sports, indicating legal recognition and inclusiveness of transgender athletes. These policies are based on forensic research conducted by sports experts, ensuring the integrity of competitions. Social and Ethical Considerations Transgender is a highly controversial topic in society and transgender people face significant challenges and discrimination in their daily lives. Allowing transgender athletes to compete in professional sports is a social consideration rooted in the inclusion and protection of these individuals. By recognizing and discussing the presence of transgender athletes, society can combat transphobia and conduct proper research into the biological roots of the problem (Ingle). Sport is meant to be inclusive and create connections and community, as stated in the Olympic Charter. For transgender athletes, their identity is often formed through sport. Sport has historically been used as a platform to promote progressive social issues, such as the inclusion of people with non-traditional sexual orientations and the establishment of gender equality. Therefore, allowing transgender athletes to compete aligns with the social narrative of sport as a way to promote equality and tell meaningful stories rather than focusing solely on competitive comparisons. Counterargument Opponents of allowing transgender women in professional sports argue that biology poses a significant fairness problem in athletic performance. Although hormone therapy decreases testosterone levels, transgender women may still benefit from certain biological advantages, such as muscle memory, bone structure, lung capacity, and heart size. Concerns also arise regarding the manipulation of.