By Bernadette Deka-Zulu (PhD Researcher)
The recently ended 2024 UN General Assembly marked a rare breakthrough moment for women in sports with the presentation of a critical report by Reem Alsalem, the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls.
Titled “Violence Against Women and Girls in Sports,” the report delves into the various forms, causes, and consequences of violence targeting women and girls in sports. It sheds light on the discrimination and human rights violations faced by female athletes, offering a timely reminder of the challenges they navigate in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Observations & Actions
The report unveils troubling realities, shedding light on the pervasive violence, harassment, and unequal treatment that women and girls endure within the world of sports. These challenges are not isolated but are experienced globally, with issues ranging from physical and sexual abuse to economic exploitation. Female athletes often face discrimination, both on and off the field, resulting in their exclusion from decision-making roles and unequal access to opportunities.
For instance, a study conducted in South Africa revealed that female footballers often reported sexual harassment from coaches and officials, with many feelings pressured to remain silent for fear of losing their spots on teams or jeopardizing their careers. This example highlights how gender-based violence and abuse often go unchecked in sports, where men dominate leadership roles, creating a toxic power imbalance. Similarly, many women athletes in Zambia and other African countries face not only abuse but also economic exploitation in the form of lower wages, insufficient sponsorship opportunities, and fewer resources compared to their male counterparts.
In response to these alarming realities, Reem Alsalem advocates for the creation of a dedicated global entity that would focus on ensuring safety in sports and safeguarding female athletes from abuse. This entity would work hand-in-hand with national governments and sports organizations to develop and enforce comprehensive policy reforms. Such reforms would include stronger protection mechanisms for female athletes, ensuring their equal participation in sports, as well as establishing clearer reporting channels for those who experience abuse. These measures aim to protect women and girls, enabling them to pursue their sports careers in an environment free from violence and discrimination, where their rights and dignity are respected.
This proposed global initiative reflects the urgency to address these deep-rooted issues and underscores the need for multi-level interventions—from international oversight to local enforcement—that ensure gender equity in sports, regardless of the country or sport involved.
What does this mean for Zambia?
For Zambia, the findings of this report serve as a roadmap to address and mitigate the violence women face in sports. Several actions are crucial to driving this change:
Policy Reforms: Zambia must introduce policies that guarantee equal opportunities and protection for female athletes. This includes creating safe spaces for women and ensuring robust support systems for survivors of violence.
Education and Awareness:
There is a need for public awareness campaigns that inform both the sports community and the public about the importance of gender equality and the rights of women and girls in sports.
Capacity Building: Training programs for coaches, referees, and sports administrators are essential to instill gender sensitivity and equip them with the skills to prevent violence against women in sports.
Partnerships: Collaborative efforts with international organizations, NGOs, and private sector players are key to driving gender equality in Zambian sports.
Projected Impact on Zambia’s Sports Sector
The implementation of these recommendations holds the potential for far-reaching impact on Zambia’s sports sector:
- Enhanced Funding: The report advocates for increased investment in sports programs that prioritize gender equality and the protection of female athletes.
- Improved Facilities: Developing safe and inclusive sports facilities will encourage greater participation among women and girls.
- Inclusive Programs: Sports programs should be inclusive, accessible to marginalized communities, and promote women’s leadership in sports.
- Capacity Building: Providing training and resources to sports stakeholders can improve the management and safety of sports environments, ensuring that female athletes can participate without fear of harm.
Empowering Zambian Athletes
For Zambian female athletes, the report’s emphasis on inclusivity and equal access presents an opportunity for progress:
✓ Greater Opportunities: Female athletes can benefit from more opportunities to participate in national and international competitions.
✓ Support Systems: The establishment of enhanced support systems, including scholarships, training, and healthcare, will be critical for the well-being of female athletes.
✓ Global Competitiveness: By creating a more inclusive and supportive environment, Zambia can bolster the global competitiveness of its female athletes, leading to international achievements.
Conclusion
The 2024 UN Special Rapporteur’s report is a call to action for countries across the Global South, including Zambia, to rethink and reform how they treat women in sports. The recommendations provide a blueprint for creating a more equitable, inclusive, and safe sports environment that empowers women and girls. Implementing these changes will not only protect Zambian female athletes but also unlock their full potential, positioning Zambia as a leader in championing women’s rights in sports.
Email reactions and views to bernadettedekazulu@gmail.com
Author
