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| - Last Updated on August 8, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A post on X claims that Imane Khelif was born male. We did a thorough fact check to term this claim as False.
The Claim
As per a post on X (formerly Twitter), Algerian boxer Imane Khelif was born as a male and fought in the women’s boxing against Angela Carini from Italy, starting a controversy.
Fact Check
What is the controversy about?
Women’s 66kg preliminary round match of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on August 1, 2024, has sparked global debate. One such example is a recent post on X that falsely claimed that Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, is a transgender athlete competing in women’s boxing at the Olympics. There is widespread gender disinformation circulating across various platforms. These claims question the fairness of her participation and label it as “abuse.” This is nothing but pure dis- and malinformation about her gender identity. Therefore, it is important to clarify the facts, debunk gender disinformation, and promote awareness about gender inclusivity in sports.
Who is Imane Khelif and what is her gender identity?
Imane Khelif is an Algerian boxer who has made significant strides in the world of women’s boxing. She has competed in numerous international events, showcasing her skills and determination. Our fact check investigation reveals Khelif is a cisgender woman, and she was not born male. It means she was assigned female at birth and identifies as a woman. Contrary to the claims made in the post, Khelif is neither transgender nor does she identify as intersex, according to credible sources such as GLAAD and InterACT.
It is important to note that Khelif reportedly has differences of sexual development (DSDs). It is a set of rare conditions involving genes, hormones, and reproductive organs that can result in atypical sexual development. Having a DSD is not the same as being transgender. DSDs can sometimes lead to a person having XY chromosomes while developing physically as female. However, this biological variation does not disqualify Khelif from competing in women’s sports under the regulations set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Khelif shared with UNICEF earlier this year that she faced teasing and discouragement for participating in sports as a young girl. She had to raise money for her boxing lessons on her own because her father disapproved of her involvement in the sport simply because she was a girl. She stated, “I started with nothing and now I have everything.”
What is gender disinformation and why is it harmful?
Gender disinformation involves spreading false or misleading information about gender identities and expressions. It often starts with the intent to create confusion, distrust, or hostility towards certain gender groups. In this case, the post wrongly labels Khelif as transgender, fueling unnecessary controversy and reinforcing harmful stereotypes about gender in sports.
Gender disinformation can lead to significant real-world consequences, as is the case with Imane Khelif. This can lead to discrimination, exclusion, and even violence against transgender and non-binary individuals. By promoting false narratives, such disinformation not only harms the individuals targeted but also sabotages the principles of fairness and inclusivity in sports.
How does the International Olympic Committee (IOC) handle transgender and DSD athletes?
The IOC has established guidelines to ensure that all athletes, including those with DSDs and transgender athletes, can compete fairly. According to the IOC, athletes should not be excluded from competing due to alleged unfair advantages based on sex variations. These guidelines are grounded in scientific research and aim to balance fair competition with the right to participate in sports.
In Khelif’s case, the International Boxing Association (IBA) conducted two “trustworthy” and “independent” tests, which reportedly found XY chromosomes. However, the specifics of these tests were not disclosed. It is crucial to understand that these findings do not automatically disqualify her from participating in women’s events. The IBA’s decision to disqualify Khelif in the 2023 World Championships was based on these tests, but the controversy surrounding this decision remains contentious, with many criticising the lack of transparency and fairness.
What impact does gender parity and inclusion have on the Olympics?
The Paris 2024 Games are notable for being the first in history to achieve gender parity. This means an equal number of male and female athletes are participating in the event. Despite fears that transgender inclusion might disrupt this balance, organisations like GLAAD and InterACT have confirmed that transgender athletes’ inclusion has had no negative impact on gender parity at the Olympics. The focus remains on ensuring that all athletes, regardless of gender identity or sex variations, have the opportunity to compete under fair conditions.
THIP Media Take
The post in question misrepresents Khelif’s identity and spreads harmful gender disinformation. This isn’t new, there have been past records where athletes have been a subject of gender disinformation in the past. For instance, Nikki Hiltz is a biological male, or that Lia Thomas was ordered to compete with men. It is important to combat such false narratives and promote an accurate understanding of gender diversity and inclusivity in sports. It’s unfortunate that people still mock gender dysphoria, calling it a virus or calling transgender a mental disorder. Recognising the facts and supporting fair and respectful discussion will help ensure that all athletes, regardless of their gender identity or biological variations, are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
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