IEA: ‘Trans ideology wants to force society to bow to its claims’

Trans ideology is ‘profoundly endangering’ free speech and democracy in society, a respected think tank has warned.

‘Transgender ideology: A new threat to liberal values’, published by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), argues that many trans activists “do not aim to win the debate but rather to prevent debate from occurring” while pursuing the “assertion of raw political power by one political perspective upon the rest”.

In one example, the report highlighted that activists in groups such as Stonewall and Mermaids have claimed that those who say that men cannot become women through self-identification should be prosecuted for ‘hate speech’.

Authoritarian

The report’s author and IEA’s Head of Cultural Affairs, Marc Glendening, said: “The freedom of individuals to express opinions on trans issues is under serious threat. This is undermining the ability to have sensible and necessary debates on controversial topics”.

“A philosophical line in the sand needs to be drawn in this regard if the drift towards authoritarianism is to be halted.”

Nick Fletcher, the MP for Don Valley, commented: “We all need to understand the far-reaching impact of gender ideology, exercise our free speech and join this public debate, and help defend our society’s most important values against ideological attack.”

‘Fanatical clampdown’

It comes as the Green Party is under fire over accusations it discriminated against members who hold gender-critical beliefs.

an oppressive space for free speech

Dr Shahrar Ali, backed by two other campaigners, is suing the Greens after he was dismissed as the Party’s Policing and Domestic Safety spokesman following complaints by activists over his criticism of radical gender ideology.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Dr Ali said the Green Party “has become an oppressive space for free speech” and has adopted a “‘no debate’ mantra” on trans rights.

“Nobody is well served by the fanatical clampdown on legitimate debate,” he said, adding: “I’m not going to be driven out of my party in this fashion. I’m prepared to fight it in court.”