News

Athlete Charter: the Olympic Movement reaches out to global athletes

Athlete Charter to establish fundamental rights and responsibilities. Take part in the survey to let your voice be heard

A Steering Committee of 20 athlete representatives from around the world, assembled by the Athletes’ Commission (AC) of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), today released the initial components of an Athlete Charter to address and protect the fundamental rights and responsibilities of athletes around the world. 

 

The current draft of the Athlete Charter has been shaped by the input of almost 200 athlete representatives representing all continents across the globe. The initiative is another concrete step in the implementation of the IOC AC’s strategy. Today marks the next phase of the Athlete Charter’s development, whereby the Steering Committee is inviting elite-level athletes worldwide to share their voice and contribute to a second-phase survey that will continue to shape this important document. This aims to become the world’s largest athlete-focused survey ever commissioned. 

 

As the sports world continues to evolve, it is more important than ever to amplify the voice of athletes and empower and protect them. This is why the Steering Committee has undertaken to create a reference document that defines the rights and responsibilities of athletes.

“It’s about empowering athletes to succeed in their sport, making sure their voices are heard, and ensuring they have the best possible opportunities during and after their competitive careers,” said Sarah Walker, Olympic medallist, BMX racer and Chair of the 20-member Steering Committee.  

 

The Athlete Charter of Rights and Responsibilities aims to articulate the rights of athletes, and their responsibilities in an inspirational, yet straightforward document developed through an inclusive process. The goal is a body of fundamental principles that are both universal and flexible enough to adapt to athletes’ needs across the full range of sports and countries.

It is an athlete-driven initiative, developed by athletes, for athletes. Its development is a step-by-step and collaborative process with all stakeholders, with the content of the Athlete Charter driven by listening to athlete views worldwide.  

The Steering Committee - composed of 20 athlete representatives from across ten International Federations, the Association of National Olympic Committees (five representatives), the International Paralympic Committee, World Olympians Association and three IOC Athletes’ Commission members - is inviting all elite athletes globally to participate in the development of this document, by taking part in a short survey.

Athletes can sign-up to receive the survey at www.olympic.org/athlete365/athletecharter

Marco Dalla Dea

 

ISSF Partners