Olympics: IOC must ensure gender equality and safety of women journalists

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its Gender Council have sent a letter to the President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, urging the IOC to uphold gender equality and promote diversity at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. The letter emphasises the need to prevent all forms of harassment or violence against women, both journalists and athletes, and calls for the adoption of protocols to facilitate reporting and resolution of such incidents.

A British cyclist competes in the women's BMX freestyle final during the Olympic Qualifier Series in Shanghai on May 18, 2024, ahead of the Paris 2024 Games. (Credit: WANG Zhao / AFP)

The federation stresses that ensuring respectful behavior and swift action in cases of threats or harassment is crucial to maintaining the sporting values and safety of all participants.

Download the letter here