A debate at the Polish Surgeons’ Congress titled “Should Women Be Surgeons?” has triggered fierce online criticism, with critics accusing it of reinforcing harmful stereotypes and undermining the competence of female surgeons. The Polish “Women in Surgery” Foundation condemned the session, while the organization behind the event issued an apology.
Controversial Debate on “Should Women Be Surgeons?” at Symposium Sparks Online Backlash. “Embarrassing”
Controversial Debate at the Congress
A contentious debate at the Polish Surgeons’ Congress titled “Women vs. Men: Who Is More Hardworking and Privileged in Polish Surgery?” has ignited controversy. The “Women in Surgery” Foundation criticized the session, stating that the topic “reinforces harmful stereotypes and questions the qualifications, achievements, and presence of women in surgery—a field where women have worked successfully and professionally for years.” The foundation emphasized that such debates, regardless of intent, should not be held under the Polish Surgical Society, an organization committed to scientific rigor and established positions. It argued that the society’s role should be to promote equality, diversity, and an environment conducive to the development of all surgeons, regardless of gender.
Online Outcry: “Truly Embarrassing”
Public reaction has been overwhelmingly critical, with netizens calling the debate “truly embarrassing.” Blogger Joanna Pachla highlighted linguistic issues, suggesting, “Women should be surgeons, not ‘chirurgi,’ because the word ‘chirurgi’ is grammatically incorrect, and language shapes the world.” Feminist influencer Martyna Kaczmarek mocked the debate’s phrasing, asking, “Hit. So should ‘girls’ or ‘delicate women’ be surgeons (NO, OF COURSE WOMEN SHOULD BE SURGEONS), or should we finally ban it?” Social media users also pointed out the absurdity of the opposing arguments, such as a claim that women might not finish shopping or pick up their children from preschool due to extended surgeries.
Organizers Respond to Criticism: “Surgery Has No Gender”
The Polish Surgical Society issued a statement clarifying and apologizing for the mischosen titles. They stressed, “Our intention has never been to belittle any group. On the contrary, as a medical community, we strongly believe that surgery has no gender, and its true strength lies in the competence, passion, and dedication of every surgeon, regardless of sex.” The session aimed to foster “open and honest discussions about building a culture of mutual respect, equality, and inclusivity in surgery.” The society noted that roughly one-third of its members are women and reiterated its goal to increase this number annually, promoting the profession among all genders while eliminating structural inequalities and discriminatory practices.
Source: Gazeta, https://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/swiat/7
