Fairness, inclusion and non−discrimination in Olympic sport
In November 2021, the IOC released the Framework on Fairness, Inclusion and Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sex Variations.
This followed a two-year consultation process with more than 250 athletes and concerned stakeholders, which took place in the context of growing discussion about the best ways to support trans athletes and athletes with sex variations to compete in sport in ways that affirm their identity and well-being, while also ensuring meaningful and fair competition. The Framework constitutes the IOC’s guidance on this topic to sports bodies. It aims to support them to provide pathways to inclusion in elite sport for all athletes, without discriminating on the basis of gender identity or sex variations, while defining disproportionate advantage in ways that preserve meaningful and fair competition. This approach aligns with the IOC’s commitment to human rights as outlined in Olympic Agenda 2020+5.
The Framework comprises 10 principles:
- Inclusion
- Prevention of harm
- Non-discrimination
- Fairness
- No presumption of advantage
- Evidence-based approach
- Primacy of health and bodily autonomy
- Stakeholder-centered approach
- Right to privacy
- Periodic reviews
These principles are designed to be used as a collective whole.
The Framework recommends a multifaceted approach to eligibility criteria for sex-segregated sports competition. This is because the factors that matter to sports performance are unique to each sport, discipline, and/or event. The Framework also recognizes that populations of trans people and people with sex variations are highly diverse, including with regard to their athletic abilities. Like previous guidance, the Framework is nonbinding.
The full Framework can be accessed via the links on this webpage, along with answers to Frequently Asked Questions on this complex topic. The IOC is developing further implementation guidance aimed at supporting sports bodies to translate the Framework into practical actions and policy outcomes that embody the values of fairness, inclusion, and non-discrimination.
