Women in sports: Council approves conclusions to combat gender-based discrimination

The Council approved conclusions on women and equality in the field of sport.

The conclusions emphasise the importance of access to a safe, inclusive and equal playing field, free from any form of inequality, discrimination or violence.

Despite the progress made so far, women still participate much less in sport and physical activity than men, largely due to sociocultural barriers. However, 8 in 10 Europeans believe that female role models in sports would inspire more women and girls to follow their example.

Against this backdrop, the Council invites member states to ensure equal access to and full participation in sports for everyone, no matter their gender, with a focus on equal pay for equal work in professional sports.

Victor Francos Díaz, Spanish State Secretary for Sports

Girls across the European Union, from the Azores to Lapland, should be able to dream of becoming world champions who are safe and respected. We must support them on that path by promoting equal opportunities and by ensuring a sports environment free from violence and harassment.

Victor Francos Díaz, Spanish State Secretary for Sports

The Council calls on member states to act in order to:

  • increase the proportion of women in sports leadership positions
  • promote wider and stereotype-free media coverage of women’s sports competitions
  • prevent and combat harassment, sexual abuse and violence at all levels
  • better protect witnesses and victims of gender-based violence
  • consider the gender perspective in sports infrastructure and facilities

The Commission is invited to include the sports sector in its gender equality strategies and to continue supporting awareness-raising throughout the EU.

Similarly, the sports movement should promote equal funding opportunities and incorporate the gender equality perspective in sports governance, including gender budgeting.

Background

In 2020, the European Commission published the gender equality strategy 2020-2025, as part of its efforts for a ‘Union of equality’. The conclusions on women and equality in sports were tabled by the Spanish presidency in order to further promote women’s participation, leadership and visibility in sports, given the obstacles, discrimination and stereotypes that women and girls still face in the field.