Scientist and author Richard Dawkins announced that Facebook deleted his account after he posted–on a different platform–that Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who has XY chromosomes, should not compete against women in the Olympics. He believes the account deletion is a form of censorship.
Dawkins clarified he had not posted about Khelif on Facebook but only on X, formerly known as Twitter. Despite this, Facebook appears to have removed his account. On July 29, Dawkins tweeted criticism over genetically male athletes competing in women’s events.
Imane Khelif, who competed in the Women’s 66 kg boxing category at the Paris Olympics, has been the center of controversy. The International Boxing Association (IBA) asserts that Khelif’s genetic makeup includes XY chromosomes and elevated testosterone levels, classifying “her” biologically as male. Despite this, Khelif was permitted to compete in the Olympics, winning the gold medal after defeating China’s Yang Liu in the final.
The IBA has consistently opposed Khelif’s participation in women’s boxing due to these tests. However, the IOC, which has taken over boxing events from the IBA because of governance issues, allowed him to compete. The IBA previously disqualified Khelif, along with Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, from world championships for failing gender tests.
Several public figures, including author J.K. Rowling and businessman Elon Musk, have criticized the decision to let Khelif compete. Rowling cited the athletes’ male-typical biology as a significant factor in the debate.
The IOC defended its decision, stating that Khelif and Lin Yu-ting’s passports identify them as women, allowing them to participate.
