The assumption that men are stronger and better athletes than women should be abandoned if gender equality in sports is to become a reality. Instead, we need to encourage girls and young women to enjoy the joy and lifelong benefits of participating in sport. This would help ease a mental health crisis in teenage girls, reducing anxiety and self-harm and encouraging healthy lifestyles.
Gender equality in sports must be pursued in a strategic manner by sporting organisations and governing bodies like the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This includes ensuring that female athletes are represented on their boards, treated equitably and given the same opportunities as male athletes. Equally important, societal attitudes must change to create a positive environment for women and girls in sports, including addressing negative stereotypes that persist in popular culture and the media.
A recent survey by Insure4Sport found that 75% of women agree that gender equality in sports is an issue. This reflects a global trend towards more awareness of gender inequality in sport, driven by movements such as #MeToo and #SeAcabo. However, the positive changes in attitudes do not yet translate into equal participation or media coverage of female sports, which is a worrying sign for the future of sport and gender equality.
In order to achieve gender equality in sports, there is a need for greater investment and more awareness-raising initiatives that promote and support the role of female athletes, such as increased funding and equal training fees, and balanced media coverage of both women’s and men’s achievements. This should be complemented by policies and legislation to address the structural barriers, such as the gender-based discrimination and harassment faced by many women in sport.
