The legal and ethical implications of gender discrimination and sexual harassment in sports, with a focus on India’s sports industry

Abstract

The role of sports in enhancing the health and well-being of its participants is widely celebrated. Yet, a critical aspect that is often neglected is the detrimental impact on athletes' health and well-being when they face non-accidental violence or maltreatment, such as harassment and abuse. These forms of misconduct not only infringe on human rights but could also constitute criminal offenses.[1] Despite this, many sports organizations fall short in addressing these issues, primarily due to fears of reputational damage, lack of awareness, or a culture of silence and complicity.[2]

Research in non-sports contexts indicates that problems of abuse and harassment are not exclusive to any one field; they are societal issues that can permeate the sports world as well.[3] Determining whether sports are more or less vulnerable to these issues, or if they offer any unique forms of protection, is complex. However, it is clear that as athletes advance in their career, their risk for psychological, physical, and sexual violence escalates.