The long awaited 8th version of WPATH’s “Standards of Care” is here.
https://www.wpath.org/publications/soc
This standard represents the closest the world can get to a consensus on health care offers to individuals who experience gender incongruence, be it binary, near binary, non-binary, agender, intersex or any other self-defined version of trans/gender diversity (TGD).
The SOC 8 arrives in times of great trouble for TGD people many places in the world, also in countries and societies from whom we expected better. Different kinds of sanctions and restrictions are issued that in serious ways disrupt numerous individual’s happiness and quality of life.
The SOC 8 as the former SOCs, stands on solid scientific grounds with as many as 165 pages of references. It is a big leap forward in that it takes in more of the perspectives of the TGD population itself. It offers a separate chapter on so called non-binary people and one on intersex. This is highly appreciated.
Those who might oppose gender affirming treatment have no scientific standing like that of SOC 8. Therefore this current 8th version of the SOC can be used as the most updated scientific standard by practitioners and by the TGD population and their allies themselves.
The European Federation of Sexology is happy to endorse the SOC 8!
A Shared Commitment to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
The ESCRH Position Paper reaffirms that sexual and reproductive health and rights are fundamental human rights and should be guaranteed to all individuals without discrimination, coercion, or violence. The document highlights the importance of evidence-based healthcare, equitable access to contraception, comprehensive sexuality education, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, and protection from gender-based violence.
The position paper also emphasizes the need to address inequalities affecting marginalized populations, including adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals, migrants, refugees, people with disabilities, older adults, and sex workers. It calls for inclusive, accessible, and rights-based healthcare systems capable of meeting the needs of diverse communities.
Key Areas of Focus
Among its main recommendations, the document advocates for:
- Universal access to modern contraception and family planning services;
- Safe, legal, and dignified reproductive healthcare;
- Comprehensive sexuality and reproductive health education throughout the lifespan;
- Stronger prevention, screening, and treatment strategies for sexually transmitted infections and HIV;
- Improved access to HPV vaccination and reproductive cancer prevention programs;
- Action against gender-based violence and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation;
- Protection of evidence-based healthcare from misinformation and ideological interference.
The paper further highlights the importance of professional education, scientific research, and international collaboration in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights.
