Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
A UN independent expert has highlighted significant racial and ethnic disparities in access to sport, noting that minorities and racially marginalized populations face underrepresentation at various levels of global sport, reflecting broader structural inequalities. Persistent stereotypes influence athlete identification, training, selection, and perception, according to Ashwini K.P., the Human Rights Council-appointed rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism and related intolerance.
The report draws attention to economic and geographical barriers, including lack of facilities, equipment, coaching, and nutrition, which impede children and young people—especially from lower-income and racially marginalized backgrounds—from entering and continuing participation in sports. Inability to access amateur and youth leagues can hinder advancement to elite levels, reducing long-term physical and mental health benefits for disadvantaged groups.
Specific eligibility regulations are noted for their potentially discriminatory effects. For example, hijab bans in France are identified as measures that disproportionately affect Muslim women, illustrating intersectional discrimination within sport policies.
The report further notes that restrictions on freedom of movement and the destruction of sports facilities in regions such as the Occupied Palestinian Territory severely restrict opportunities for international competition and participation.
To address these issues, the expert recommends that Member States collect disaggregated data on racism in sports, invest in infrastructure, promote equitable access, ensure athlete safety, and review eligibility regulations for discriminatory impacts, in line with obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.