TITLE:
Gender Equality within the Sports Legal Framework: A Comprehensive Analysis and Future Perspectives
AUTHORS:
Francesco Ernesto Alessi Longa
KEYWORDS:
Gender Equality, Sports Governance, Sports Legal Framework, Gender Discrimination, Wage Disparity, Sports Inclusivity, Female Representation, Women’s Opportunities in Sport
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.13 No.2,
February
28,
2025
ABSTRACT: Sport cannot be discussed without mentioning gender as one of the social and economic equality topics in the world. Nevertheless, despite the recent improvements in international, European, and national laws, gender discrimination still occurs in different aspects such as representation, opportunities, and funding. In particular, this paper looks at the current challenges facing female athletes in terms of wages, the media, and career opportunities. It also pays special attention to the international and national standards and their effectiveness in eliminating such inequalities, and the impact on sports governance and athlete opportunities. A key focus is placed on efforts to foster inclusivity and equality, particularly through awareness-raising campaigns and policies aimed at supporting women in sport. Finally, the article concludes by reflecting on the gradual pace of change and emphasises the need for collective action to continue to chip away at the cultural barriers that prevent women from being adequately represented in sport.