Adoption of the Universal Declaration of Athletes' Rights by the Council of the Order

[CONSEIL DE L'ORDRE - BARREAU DE PARIS]

On June 18, 2024, a significant milestone in the world of sports and human rights was achieved with the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Athletes' Rights (UDAR) by the Council of the Order (Conseil de l'Ordre) in France.

Article 5 (Right to Justice) of the UDAR provides that:

"Every Athlete shall have the right to access to a fair system of justice in the event of a sports-related dispute with the possibility of appealing and being heard impartially.

Every Athlete shall have the right to appeal to the courts if his/her rights are violated, and to benefit from a fair and impartial procedure."

Key Provisions

The Universal Declaration of Athletes' Rights is a comprehensive document designed to ensure that athletes are treated with dignity and respect. It outlines fundamental rights that athletes are entitled to, regardless of their sport, nationality, or level of competition.

Key areas covered in the declaration include:

1. Health and Safety: Athletes have the right to a safe and secure environment, free from abuse, discrimination, and exploitation. This includes access to appropriate medical care and the assurance that their physical and mental well-being is prioritized.

1. Fairness and Equality: The declaration emphasizes the right to fair competition and equal opportunities, ensuring that athletes are not subject to discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or any other characteristic.

1. Freedom of Expression: Athletes are entitled to express their opinions freely and to advocate for social and political causes without fear of retribution or censorship.

1. Protection from Doping and Corruption: The document calls for strict measures to protect athletes from the pressures and consequences of doping and corruption, promoting integrity in sports.

1. Right to Organize and Bargain: Athletes have the right to form unions or associations to collectively negotiate and protect their interests, similar to other labor sectors.

Implications and Significance

The adoption of the Universal Declaration of Athletes' Rights is a landmark achievement, signaling a global recognition of the unique challenges faced by athletes and the need for their rights to be explicitly acknowledged and protected. This initiative is particularly significant in light of increasing concerns over athlete welfare, including issues such as mental health, exploitation, and the pressures of elite competition, which can in turn lead to unfair practices such as cheating. By establishing a clear set of rights, the declaration not only empowers athletes but also holds sporting organizations and governing bodies accountable for upholding these standards. This framework aims to foster a more ethical and transparent sports environment, where athletes' voices are heard and their rights are safeguarded.

In conclusion, the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Athletes' Rights represents a significant step towards a fairer and more equitable sporting world. It reinforces the principle that athletes, like all individuals, deserve to have their rights protected and respected, paving the way for a more just and inclusive future in sports. Nevertheless, there will still be challenge in the implementation and enforcement of these rights. The latter will require concerted efforts from international sports federations, national governing bodies, and athlete representatives to ensure that these principles are translated into actionable policies and practices. Furthermore, continuous dialogue and review will be essential to address emerging issues and to adapt the declaration to the evolving landscape of global sports.