Road works ahead : the on-going discourse regarding the use of puberty blockers for transgender children

Abstract

This article examines the intersection of transgender children’s rights and gender-affirming care. The Dutch Protocol, renowned for its comprehensive and patient-centred approach, serves as a pivotal framework for providing gender-affirming care to transgender youth. However, amidst the growing discourse on transgender rights and ethical considerations in health care, questions arise regarding the child’s right to explore their gender identity. There is an emphasis on respecting the right of the child to preserve their identity as well as the right of the child to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health in terms of Articles 8 and 24 of the United Nations Convention of the Child. In the recent uptake of issues regarding gender-affirming care for transgender children, there are jurisdictions which we will explore to determine the prevailing perspectives and standard of care. Namely, the Netherlands in light of the Dutch Protocol, the United Kingdom in the wake of the Cass Report and the United States of America amidst the current political climate which has seen its “affirmative” model for gender-affirmative care being called into question. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, this article explores key themes and dilemmas at the nexus of transgender children’s rights and gender-affirming care.