The GC2018 Commonwealth Games announce major gender equality initiatives

GOLD COAST – In preparation for the XXI edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2018, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has announced multiple initiatives under its Gender Equality Strategy.

FIBA is joined by Hockey and Swimming in confirming that, for the first time ever, at least 50% of each sport’s technical officials will be women. The CGF has already approved seven additional women’s event categories to the Gold Coast 2018 sports programme to ensure, that men and women compete for an equal number of medals (133 women’s events; 133 men’s events; 9 mixed/open events).

The CGF has also implemented its Women Coaching Internship Programme for Gold Coast 2018. A central part of the CGF’s Gender Equality Strategy, the Women’s Coaching Internship Programme will help build women’s coaching capacity across the Commonwealth, and in turn stand to benefit athletes from all Commonwealth countries and territories.

“Across the Commonwealth Sports Movement, there is a fundamental responsibility and exciting opportunity to redress the imbalances for women and girls in sport, leadership, and society as a whole,” said CGF President Louise Martin. “I thank and congratulate our committed partners at FIBA, FIH and FINA who are leading the way to ensure a level playing field for women technical officials at Gold Coast 2018. The CGF is also thrilled that so many other sports have made such positive strides to ensure that more women than ever before preside over sports officiating and judging at the Commonwealth Games”.

FIBA in Oceania/Singapore Executive Director Mr. David Crocker commended the CGF for their commitment to gender equality at the games.

“Athletes competing in the Commonwealth Games have trained for years to earn the opportunity to represent their country. The CGF has taken great strides in creating equal opportunities for all athletes and officials to represent their country regardless of gender. FIBA is grateful to play a small part in these efforts.”

The Commonwealth Games will take place in Gold Coast, Australia from 4 – 5 April 2018.

FIBA