In a recent op-ed for The Sunday Times, UK Business and Equalities Secretary Kemi Badenoch criticized influential institutions—including the NHS, police, media, and academia—for their handling of transgender issues. She accused these bodies of being “hijacked by ideologues” and called for a comprehensive review of public policies related to gender care.
Badenoch’s remarks follow the publication of the Cass Review, a comprehensive study on child gender services. The review highlighted a significant lack of research and evidence concerning the use of puberty blockers and hormones in young people, suggesting that children have been adversely affected by current practices.
In her article, Badenoch emphasized that early critics of prevailing gender ideologies faced “hysterical abuse,” and she condemned the “cowardice” of those in influential positions who remained silent to avoid backlash or to maintain progressive reputations. She argued that if warnings about ideological influences in NHS gender services had been heeded, the harm to children might have been prevented.
As a prominent figure within the Conservative Party, Badenoch’s statements have garnered support from some right-leaning MPs. However, critics view her comments as potentially reigniting cultural tensions. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has acknowledged the Cass Review’s findings, emphasizing the need for “extreme caution” in matters of child gender care.
Badenoch’s intervention underscores ongoing debates about the role of ideology in public institutions and the importance of evidence-based approaches to sensitive healthcare issues.
