The deputy minister in the presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Steve Letsike welcomes Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) Ruling which came in favor of Semenya.
Sport is increasingly recognized as a platform for promoting and protecting universal human rights, including the right to participate without discrimination, the right to fair play, and the right to a safe and inclusive environment. Deputy Minister Letsike said “The discrimination against professional athlete with differences of sex is a violation of universal human rights”
The ECHR’s decision underscores the complexities and challenges faced by athletes like Semenya, who have been adversely affected by regulations regarding testosterone levels in female athletes. While we celebrate this achievement for Semenya and the broader athletic community, we express our concern that the ruling did not establish a precedent for regulating testosterone levels in sports, which is contrary to Semenya’s objective of achieving a competitive advantage.
Current regulations have disproportionately impacted women athletes with disorders of sex development (DSDs), compelling them to undergo unnecessary medical procedures or face exclusion from competitions.
Violence against women and girls is a complex and multifaced problem; sport represents a complex ecosystem. To tackle violence against women and girls in sport, both policy makers and sports practitioners must work together. We firmly believe that any regulations or policies governing athletes’ participation must priorities fairness, inclusivity, and respect for human rights. said Deputy Minister Letsike.
Looking ahead, we encourage sport’s governing bodies to engage in more nuanced and inclusive dialogues regarding athlete regulations, considering the diverse experiences and needs of all athletes. We reaffirm our dedication to advocating for the rights and empowerment of women and girls in sports and anticipate continued efforts on this vital issue.
Media Enquiries Contact:
Cassius Selala, Head of Communication: Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Cell: 060 534 0672
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