Organized by the European Network of Equality Bodies (Equinet) and the Italian Office against Racial Discrimination (UNAR), a conference dedicated to combating discrimination in sport was held in Rome on 7 November 2024, followed by a workshop for Equinet members on 8 November. Deputy Ombudswoman Dijana Kesonja participated in both events, alongside other representatives of national equality bodies, representatives of sports associations, athletes, and other stakeholders.
The conference highlighted the important role of sport in fostering inclusion and bringing together all groups of professional and amateur athletes. Speakers from the world of sport shared personal experiences to illustrate how sport can empower and connect people of diverse personal and social backgrounds. Due to sport’s global popularity, this contributes to the creation of a more inclusive society.
National equality bodies from various countries presented examples of discrimination in sport through real-life cases. Participants concluded that understanding and recognizing discrimination—how existing prejudices can manifest in sport, how they affect members of different groups, and how they can be tackled and prevented—is crucial for its effective elimination.
Athletes themselves, especially those with international recognition, can significantly contribute to greater social inclusion by serving as positive role models and raising public awareness about the equality of all individuals, regardless of characteristics related to grounds of discrimination. Finally, joint sports activities at the local community level can foster positive attitudes towards members of diverse groups, thereby contributing to education on equality and the reduction of discrimination in society.