The issue of non-consensual surgeries on minors with variations of sex characteristics goes to the heart of WHT’s vision for all women to be active decision makers in their health and wellbeing.
Choice has always been a central issue for feminist movements and organising. We extend our solidarity to people with variations of sex characteristics, who are also making the argument for their bodily autonomy, choice and self determination to be recognised and protected as a matter of urgency.
It is our view that any decisions regarding policy and legislation should be guided by advocates from the intersex community.
(We also understand that using the phrase ‘intersex people’ can be problematic. Not all people with variations of sex characteristics define themselves as intersex; many view themselves as male or female.)
In our submission to the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute, WHT recommended that
- Medically unnecessary surgeries on intersex minors should be criminalised
- Legislation be introduced that defined the legal framework for surgical interventions on intersex minors
- A specialist, multidisciplinary tribunal be established to assess applications for surgery in light of the legislation above
- Practice standards for medical professionals be developed
- Education and support is provided to health professionals and the community
If you’d like to read our submission in full, go here.