French Father Fights Icelandic Court Over Child’s Gender Transition Plans

An Icelandic court has revoked parental rights from French father Alexandre Rocha after he objected to potential puberty blockers and hormone therapy for his autistic 11-year-old child, who was recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The case has drawn international attention following Elon Musk’s public comment on the matter.

In a social media post on X, Musk wrote: “The woke mind virus even affects Iceland.” Musk previously discussed his own experience after one of his children transitioned and now uses the name Vivian Jenna Wilson.

Court documents from December indicate custody was transferred to Rocha’s wife, with restrictions placed on his medical decision-making rights. Rocha argued that his child, at age 11, could not understand the long-term consequences of gender-related treatments and that mental health assessments did not adequately address potential risks. He stated an endocrinologist who testified in court dismissed his concerns about hormone interventions.

Rocha learned in February that his child’s name had been formally changed to a female name, which he believes signals further steps in the transition process. Court records show the mother denied intentionally obstructing visitation orders, claiming the child refused visits because Rocha did not affirm the child’s gender identity or use the new name.

Rocha described Musk’s support as surprising and framed his legal battle as part of a broader debate over parental authority and youth gender care. He plans to continue legal efforts, including seeking financial penalties against his ex-wife for alleged visitation violations.