Author J.K. Rowling has announced she will fund legal action for women's groups that were identified in a withdrawn report by Amnesty International UK. Rowling stated on X, formerly Twitter, that organizations listed in the report, titled "A Growing Threat: The Anti-Rights Movement in the UK," could apply for financial backing through her JK Rowling Women's Fund if they choose to pursue legal avenues.
The report, which described over 100 organizations as 'anti-rights' groups, was removed from Amnesty's website following significant backlash. Among the named organizations were Beira's Place, an Edinburgh-based rape support service founded by Rowling; For Women Scotland; Murray Blackburn Mackenzie; Labour Women's Declaration; and LGB Alliance.
Beira's Place issued a statement condemning its inclusion in the report, calling the accusation "deeply offensive." The service, established in 2022 to provide support exclusively to biological women who have experienced sexual violence, stated its work is vital and its listing as an 'anti-rights organisation' is inexplicable. The center was founded by Rowling after controversy arose regarding the Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre's former chief executive, who suggested survivors uncomfortable with support from a transgender woman should 'reframe' their trauma.
For Women Scotland has also formally requested a full apology from Amnesty and the permanent withdrawal of the report. Rowling has previously expressed support for For Women Scotland, notably in 2022 when she wore a T-shirt criticizing Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and stated her solidarity with the group after a rally against the Scottish government's Gender Recognition Reform Bill.
Amnesty International UK stated that the briefing was uploaded without passing through established internal review processes designed to ensure consistency, accuracy, and alignment with the organization's positions. A spokesperson added that the report's language did not reflect Amnesty International UK's stance, which is why it was promptly removed. The organization has not issued an apology to Beira's Place.
One political figure, Tory MSP Murdo Fraser, suggested that Amnesty International UK might not survive the fallout from the report, predicting a decline in donations and potential liquidation due to legal claims.