Since the beginning of society, women and girls have struggled with inequality in their professional lives, schools, households and sport. Despite the many strides made in recent years, gender equality in sports is far from guaranteed. The following article discusses some of the steps that can be taken to promote gender equality in sports.

Gender inequality in sports is not merely a matter of discrimination; it can also affect athletic performance and lead to internalized oppression. For example, when female athletes receive less attention than their male counterparts, it is viewed as discrimination because it undermines their sense of self-worth and limits their future expectations. Equally, when women and girls perceive themselves to be inferior to men in sport, they will become discouraged and may give up altogether.

The first step towards gender equality in sports is to recognize that it exists and make a concerted effort to promote awareness of the issue. This can be done through educational initiatives, awareness-raising events that focus on sporting achievement rather than overcoming stereotypes and balanced media coverage. In addition, policies that increase funding, investment and the inclusion of women in coaching and leadership roles, as well as a greater emphasis on prevention and response to gender-related violence and poor practice are needed.

The Brighton Declaration in 1994 outlined an international framework for gender equality in sport, setting out a vision of the full participation of women and girls in all aspects of sports, with equal access to facilities and equal representation in governance and coaching (source). Despite this, it is still not enough to eliminate all forms of inequality in sports for women and girls.