Heather Herbert

Useful Idiots

In recent years, public figures like JK Rowling and other vocal transphobes have stirred controversy and contributed to a divisive public discourse on transgender rights. While these individuals may be acting from personal beliefs or ideological positions, there is growing evidence to suggest that their rhetoric and the broader transphobic narrative are being co-opted by foreign actors, particularly the Russian state, to undermine Western democracy. This phenomenon has been observed not only in political commentary but also in sports, where recent controversies around the eligibility of athletes like Algeria’s Imane Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-Ting have become flashpoints.

The Role of JK Rowling and Similar Voices

JK Rowling, renowned for her Harry Potter series, has become a prominent voice in the debate over transgender rights. Her public statements and essays have often been criticized as transphobic, as she questions the validity of transgender identities and the inclusion of trans women in women’s spaces. Rowling’s position has resonated with certain segments of the population, who share “concerns” about gender identity issues. However, the amplification of these views has also provided fertile ground for more malicious actors to exploit.

Russian Disinformation and the Use of “Useful Idiots”

The term “useful idiots” refers to individuals who, while not consciously collaborating with a foreign adversary, unwittingly advance that adversary’s agenda. In the context of transphobia and anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments, figures like Rowling may serve as useful idiots for the Russian state. Russia has a documented history of using divisive social issues to sow discord in Western democracies. By amplifying transphobic narratives, whether through direct influence operations or more subtle amplification of existing divisive figures, Russia seeks to fracture Western societies along cultural and political lines.

This strategy is part of a broader Russian playbook that includes supporting far-right and populist movements in Europe and the United States, spreading disinformation about public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, and interfering in electoral processes. The aim is to destabilize democratic societies, weaken public trust in institutions, and create a more favourable environment for authoritarian governance.

The Boxing Controversy and Russian Disinformation

A recent example of this tactic can be seen in the controversy surrounding Olympic boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting. Both athletes, who have competed as women throughout their careers, were recently subjected to widespread allegations of being “biological men.” The accusations, lacking credible evidence, originated from a post by Russian IBA president Umar Kremlev on Telegram, claiming that DNA tests revealed both athletes had XY chromosomes. This narrative was then propagated by Russian state media and other sympathetic outlets.

The timing and nature of these allegations suggest a deliberate attempt to exploit sensitive cultural debates around gender identity in sports. By targeting athletes from diverse backgrounds—Algeria and Taiwan—Russian operatives likely sought to stir international controversy, deepen existing divides within the Olympic community, and discredit Western media and institutions by forcing them into complex, nuanced debates that often lack clear answers.

The Broader Impact on Western Democracies

The strategic amplification of transphobia serves multiple purposes for Russian state interests. It distracts from internal issues within Russia, such as economic challenges and human rights abuses, by shifting focus to controversies abroad. It also destabilizes potential rivals by exacerbating internal divisions. For Western democracies, the result is a fragmented public sphere where critical issues—like the rights and recognition of transgender individuals—become battlegrounds for larger geopolitical conflicts.

Moreover, the controversy undermines the integrity of international sports organizations like the International Olympic Committee (IOC). By seeding doubts about the fairness and inclusivity of these institutions, Russian operatives aim to weaken global governance structures and erode the moral authority of Western-led organizations.

The involvement of foreign actors in promoting divisive narratives around trans rights and other social issues underscores the need for vigilance. Public figures and commentators must recognize the broader context in which their statements can be used and manipulated. Western democracies, meanwhile, must strengthen their resilience against such tactics by promoting inclusivity, fostering open dialogue, and critically assessing information sources.

Understanding the role of transphobia in geopolitical strategies is crucial for countering these efforts. As the example of the Olympic boxers shows, seemingly domestic debates can have far-reaching international implications. By remaining aware of these dynamics and actively resisting divisive rhetoric, societies can better protect themselves against the corrosive influence of foreign powers seeking to undermine democratic values.