Binary sex

Binary sex refers to a sex/gender system that recognises only two categories: male and female. This system assumes that people fit clearly into one of these two categories and that there are no intermediate or other gender identities.

The problem with this model is that it can make gender diversity invisible. Intersex, non-binary and other people often do not fit into this division and may therefore experience exclusion, pressure or violence. It is especially harmful when medical procedures, social norms or expectations are used to force people into a rigid binary model. This can have serious consequences for those affected.