UN Expert Calls for States to Uphold Sports as a Cultural Right, Eliminate Discrimination

Xanthaki emphasized the importance of addressing structural inequalities and biases that affect who benefits from sports, who is harmed, and who participates in decision-making.

The right to participate in sports should be recognized as a cultural right accessible to everyone, UN Special Rapporteur on Cultural Rights, Alexandra Xanthaki, urged today. She called on States to take proactive steps to eliminate stereotypes and ensure equal access to sports, presenting her report to the UN General Assembly.

Xanthaki emphasized the importance of addressing structural inequalities and biases that affect who benefits from sports, who is harmed, and who participates in decision-making. Her report underscored that sports associations carry a significant responsibility to uphold human rights and must not invoke their “autonomy” to avoid accountability. Clear pathways for redress must be developed, particularly for historical abuses, with civil society and affected individuals actively involved in crafting solutions.

“Neutrality does not apply when it concerns human rights. Double standards persist in elite sports, especially regarding gender and nationality,” Xanthaki stated, encouraging all organizations to take strong positions in support of human rights.

She called on governments to eliminate discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, legal status, age, and other intersecting factors. She cited concerning examples such as blanket bans on female transgender athletes or discriminatory practices for women with sex variations, noting that such measures often violate international standards.

Additionally, Xanthaki highlighted the need for media partnerships to promote inclusive policies and combat misrepresentations. She warned that assumptions about gender in sports must be reassessed and that restrictive decisions based on gender norms must be re-evaluated immediately.

The UN report also urged States to implement national policies fostering safe and supportive environments for diverse participation in sports. Campaigns aimed at educating the public on the importance of diversity in sports and dismantling prejudiced perceptions should be prioritized to create a sports culture that embraces all individuals.