Advance gender equality and empower all women and girls (SDG 5)

Physical education, physical activity and sport reflect societal gender norms. Women are less likely to participate in physical activity than men and are significantly under-represented in leadership roles across sport. Proactive investment, policies and strategies can help address inequalities in sport participation and leadership (SDG 5.1, 5.5 and 5.c).

Evidence suggests that strong and active participation of women in decision making processes has a potent impact on social development. In many communities, targeted sport-based programmes have made important contributions to the empowerment of women and girls. Well-designed and effectively delivered initiatives can provide safe spaces to engage and support women and girls, and promote female leadership (SDG 5.5). Eliminating all forms of violence and harmful practices against women and girls in sport will also contribute to wider sustainable development goals (SDG 5.2 and 5.3).