Illustration by Maqué Studio
Equality Bodies play a key role in fostering inclusion and combating discrimination by supporting initiatives that empower vulnerable groups. Through sports, they can dismantle barriers, promote understanding, and showcase the abilities of persons with disabilities and other marginalized communities.
The Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination (CPD) in Albania has partnered with the National Club of Parents of Children with Autistic Disorders to coach football to people with intellectual disabilities, with the aim of promoting inclusion and participation of vulnerable groups in sports.
Together with the Albanian Football Federation, the CPD and the National Club of Parents of Children with Autistic Disorder work to organize a national football tournament, bringing together eight teams from various regions, highlighting the talents of participants and raising public awareness about the values of equality and non-discrimination. The project culminates in the creation of a national team to compete internationally, further advancing the visibility and inclusion of vulnerable communities through sport.
Are you interested in knowing more about how Equinet and Equality Bodies work to promote inclusion in sport?
- In 2022 Equinet held a webinar series “Equality Bodies building their capacity on psychosocial disabilities and mental health issues” with the objective to enhance the capacity of Equality Bodies through exchanges with rights holders and peer exchange regarding psychosocial disabilities and persons with mental health issues.
- In 2024 Equinet and UNAR held a conference and workshop “Game Changer: Sport’s role in fighting discrimination“, which brought together Equality Bodies and relevant institutions and organisations from across Europe to share good practices and develop their cooperation on promoting equality and tackling discrimination in sport. More resources are available at the link above.
- Discover more about Equality Bodies’ work in the field of sports: “The Finnish Non-Discrimination Ombudsman promoting equality and inclusion in sports“.