Empower Women and Girls in Sports: Collaborate for Change and Achieve Shared Goals.
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The landscape of sports has evolved significantly over the years, yet there remains a pressing need to enhance opportunities for women and girls. The International Working Group (IWG) on Women and Sport, established in 1994, aims to address these disparities by fostering an environment where women can actively participate and excel in sports.
With the launch of the Brighton Declaration, a pivotal document for promoting gender equality in sports, the IWG serves as a catalyst for change. Its primary objective is to ensure that women and girls can access the benefits of sports, not only as participants but also as leaders and advocates.
Building a global network for change
The IWG operates as a comprehensive network of networks, bridging the gap between local initiatives and global policies. By uniting various organizations, leaders, and advocates, the IWG cultivates collaboration across all levels of the sports community.
This interconnected approach enables the sharing of knowledge and best practices, ultimately driving meaningful progress.
Connecting stakeholders
From grassroots community clubs to elite competitive platforms, the IWG encompasses a wide array of stakeholders. This diversity allows for the cultivation of strategies that address unique challenges faced by women in sports. By fostering connections among various entities, the IWG creates a robust support system that empowers women and girls to pursue their athletic aspirations.
Fostering inclusive practices
Inclusivity is at the core of the IWG’s mission. The organization is dedicated to transforming sports into a domain where women and girls can thrive, whether on the field or in leadership roles. By promoting inclusive practices, the IWG aims to dismantle barriers and expand opportunities for all.
The Brighton Plus Helsinki Declaration
The Brighton Plus Helsinki Declaration, updated in 2014, stands as the foremost framework for advancing the status of women and girls in physical activity and sports. Supported by over 600 organizations globally, this declaration outlines ten key principles that advocate for equality and inclusivity in sports.
These principles range from leadership and resource allocation to education and active participation. By endorsing this declaration, organizations demonstrate their commitment to translating their intentions into actionable steps, thereby joining an international effort to enhance opportunities for women and girls.
Commitment to action
Signing the Brighton Plus Helsinki Declaration signifies a pledge to foster a culture of inclusion and equality within the sports sector. Organizations that align with these principles actively work towards removing obstacles that hinder women’s participation and advancement in sports.
Global unity for progress
Through the collective efforts of various stakeholders, the IWG is creating a unified movement aimed at reshaping the future of sports. This global coalition not only enhances visibility for women’s sports but also ensures that the voices of women and girls are heard and valued.
Engaging with the IWG
For individuals and organizations looking to make a difference, engaging with the IWG offers a pathway to contribute to this vital cause. Whether through collaboration, sharing resources, or participating in initiatives, every effort counts in the pursuit of gender equality in sports.
With the launch of the Brighton Declaration, a pivotal document for promoting gender equality in sports, the IWG serves as a catalyst for change. Its primary objective is to ensure that women and girls can access the benefits of sports, not only as participants but also as leaders and advocates.0
