The Global Observatory for Gender Equality & Sport (GO) is a global convenor and trusted repository of research and expertise on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in and through physical education, physical activity and sport (PEPAS).
As a research-led organisation grounded in both quantitative and qualitative data, the GO serves as a platform that facilitates access to knowledge, strengthens partnerships and mobilises collective action to advance gender equality in sport.
Our aim is to combat gender inequalities in a comprehensive and meaningful way, while promoting safe, fair and inclusive environments across the sports ecosystem and beyond. In doing so, the GO acts as a global catalyst for lasting, systemic change.
Our Origins
Our origins trace back to UNESCO’s 4th International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport (MINEPS IV), held in Athens, Greece, in 2003. This long-standing commitment was strengthened through the adoption of the Kazan Action Plan at MINEPS VI in 2017 in Kazan, Russia, and reaffirmed at MINEPS VII in Baku, Azerbaijan, in 2023, with the support of over 100 UNESCO Member States.
Established in July 2021 with the support of UNESCO and the Swiss Confederation. Based in Lausanne, Switzerland, the GO is supported by the Canton of Vaud, the City of Lausanne and the University of Lausanne (UNIL), which are also among its founding Members.
Our Vision
A world where gender equality is fully realised across physical education, physical activity and sport, and where women and girls can participate, lead and thrive in safe, fair and inclusive environments.
Our Mission
We advance gender equality in and through physical education, physical activity and sport by serving as a global knowledge hub, convening stakeholders and mobilising action for systemic change.
Our Structure
We operate as an association, comprising the General Assembly, the Board and the Advisory Council. Together, these bodies ensure strong leadership, accountability and implementation of the collective vision.
The General Assembly
The General Assembly is the highest governing authority of the GO and is composed of all founding Members. It is responsible for voting on resolutions proposed by the Board and approving the overall strategy of the GO.
The Board
The Board consists of a minimum of three Members elected by the General Assembly. It is authorised to carry out all actions relating to the aims of the GO and holds full responsibility for the management of its day-to-day operations.
Observer Members, including representatives from United Nations agencies at global, national and regional levels as well as the International Olympic Committee (IOC), participate as key voices, contributing strategic insight and global perspective to the Board’s work.
The Advisory Council
The Advisory Council brings together a diverse range of expertise from across the global sport and gender equality landscape, including academic institutions, sports associations, governments, governmental agencies and the corporate sector.
Established to unite multiple voices and perspectives from across regions and disciplines, the Advisory Council plays an active and practical role in strengthening and reinforcing the GO’s vision. Through collaboration, insight and engagement, it supports both the advancement and implementation of this vision, contributing to meaningful and actionable outcomes across the GO’s work.
While it is not a formal decision-making body within the governance structure, the Advisory Council is central to enhancing collaboration, relevance and impact across the GO.