How to Report on Trans People Responsibly: Key Guidelines from the 2025 Media Guide

The Media Guide for Reporting on Trans People is a resource designed for journalists, editors, producers, and everyone who shapes the public information space. It offers clear, practical, and ethical recommendations to help cover stories about trans people accurately, respectfully, and without harmful stereotypes.

Here are the key takeaways:

Work with trans people, not just about them

Include trans people as experts — not only as story subjects, but also as commentators, researchers, and activists. Always confirm their name, pronouns, and titles. Don’t highlight a person’s trans identity unless it’s directly relevant to the topic.

Use accurate and respectful language

• Never use a deadname (birth name) without the person’s explicit consent.
• Ask what pronouns and forms of address they prefer.
• Avoid terms like “sex change,” “biological sex,” or “gender ideology.”
• Instead of saying “identifies as,” simply write: “she is a trans woman” or “he is a trans man” — if that’s how the person wants to be described.

Avoid sensationalism

Don’t reduce stories to trauma or hardship. Show trans people’s strength, achievements, and progress. Report on challenges and resilience. Don’t portray trans people as “others” — they are part of society.

Verify your sources

Quotes and commentary should come from individuals or organizations that truly represent the trans community. Avoid sources that mimic human rights work without real connection or expertise, even if they have large social media followings.

Write headlines with respect

Steer clear of clickbait phrases like “sex change,” “born a woman,” or “turned into a man.” Choose precise, respectful language that doesn’t sensationalize or create fear.

Why it matters

Language shapes how we see people. It can be a tool for support or a source of harm. Ethical reporting on trans issues isn’t about being “politically correct” — it’s about upholding dignity and respect.

This guide is based on the style and ethics recommendations from the Trans Journalists Association (USA) and the Trans Media Guide by Transgender Europe (TGEU).