Gender Discrimination in Indonesian Sport: Legal Protection for Women Athletes in Recruitment, Compensation, and Competition
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65815/nwp3ed09Keywords:
Gender discrimination, women athletes, equality, sports law, athlete rightsAbstract
Women athletes continue to face structural barriers in sports participation, including unequal access to opportunities, compensation, sponsorship, facilities, and competitive platforms. Although formal equality may exist within sports regulations, institutional practices can produce substantial disparities in the treatment of male and female athletes. This article examines the legal protection available to women athletes against gender discrimination in Indonesian sport. Using normative juridical research, the study analyzes equality principles, human rights, employment law, sports governance, and relevant international standards. The study identifies potential gaps between formal commitments to equality and practical mechanisms for preventing and remedying discriminatory treatment. Particular attention is given to recruitment, remuneration, sponsorship opportunities, access to training facilities, competition scheduling, and institutional decision-making. The article proposes a gender-responsive sports governance framework requiring transparent selection criteria, non-discriminatory contractual standards, equal access to facilities and development programs, and effective complaint mechanisms. Equality should be assessed not merely through identical treatment but also through whether institutional practices produce unjustified structural disadvantages. Strengthening legal protection for women athletes would contribute to a more inclusive sports system while reinforcing Indonesia's broader commitments to equality, human dignity, and non-discrimination.
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