HRW welcomes IOC framework on fairness, inclusion & non-discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sex variations
Matthew Gibson via Canva
"New Olympic Framework Backs Inclusion," 16 Nov 2021
A new framework published by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) promotes inclusion in sport, Human Rights Watch said today. The new policy contrasts with the “sex testing” policies imposed on some athletes in international track and field competitions...
The “IOC Framework on Fairness, Inclusion, and Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sex Variations” is the outcome of a years-long process, including consultations with affected athletes, undertaken by the apex body in global sport. The intention is to provide guidelines for sporting federations on how to protect the rights of transgender athletes as well as athletes born with variations of their sex characteristics. The framework replaces the IOC’s 2015 Consensus Statement on the issue of athlete eligibility with regard to gender identity and sex characteristics.
The new IOC framework represents a turning point for the fundamental rights of athletes, and a boost for women’s inclusion in sports worldwide. Foregrounding the rights to bodily autonomy, health, and privacy, the IOC has taken a significant step toward protecting the dignity of all women athletes.Minky Worden, director of global initiatives at Human Rights Watch