The project actively supports the principles of key European strategies, including the EU Work Plan for Sport (2021–2024), the Digital Education Action Plan, and the broader EU policies on gender equality, inclusion, and digital transformation.

Thus, the GENDERWISE project aims to respond to the challenges and needs of young female athletes, making a meaningful contribution to gender equality and European values in sport. GENDERWISE not only addresses existing gender disparities but also lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable sports environment across Europe by creating new opportunities for women in sports leadership.

Research Design and Methodology

The international team of experts from the participating countries conducted the research using a comprehensive, multi-level approach. A key instrument was a large-scale online survey targeting young women involved in physical education and sport across all project partner countries. The survey helped identify the main barriers hindering women’s access to leadership positions within the sports sector.

To deepen and interpret the quantitative findings, a series of in-depth interviews was carried out with professionals from the fields of sport, education, and business. This qualitative stage of the research provided valuable insights into professional development needs, existing support opportunities, and examples of successful female leadership. At the same time, an analysis of statistical data from participating countries and international organizations was conducted to reflect the disparities in women’s representation in sports management and coaching.

The final phase of the study included a review of leading international programmes, strategies, and practices aimed at supporting women in sport. The integration of empirical, expert, and analytical data enabled a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges of gender inclusion in sports governance structures and allowed for the formulation of practical recommendations for fostering women’s leadership potential within the European sports context.

Key Findings of the GENDERWISE Project Research

The international research revealed a range of systemic barriers that hinder women’s active participation in sports leadership and coaching. Despite the formal recognition of equality principles, respondents reported the persistence of strong stereotypes and unequal access to leadership roles, where men continue to hold a dominant position.

Many participants noted that they have not observed significant positive changes in attitudes toward women in sport in recent years. A particularly critical concern was the gap between declared gender equality policies and their actual implementation.

The main obstacles identified by women included:

1. Insufficient institutional support;
2. Limited access to professional development;
3. Lack of mentorship and female role models;
4. Weak peer support and collaboration among women in professional settings.

The findings highlight the urgent need to rethink strategies for closing gender gaps in coaching and leadership positions within European sport — not only through legislative or policy reforms but also by developing practical and effective support mechanisms for women’s leadership.

Future Implementation Prospects

The next phase of the GENDERWISE project will focus on the development of an international educational programme based on the research findings and agreed learning outcomes. Each partner will be responsible for designing one module within the overall structure — a set of six training blocks aimed at developing leadership potential, coaching skills, and enhancing self-esteem and confidence among young female athletes.

Key factors for the successful implementation of the project include systematic communication and the active involvement of relevant stakeholders. The GENDERWISE consortium is implementing a comprehensive communication strategy targeting its core audiences: sports organisations and clubs, educational institutions, vocational training centres, gender equality advocacy groups, as well as representatives of administrative and political bodies at various levels.

To this end, the project employs a range of modern communication channels, including social media, newsletters, the official project website, and professional platforms such as EPALE.

For more information, please visit the project social networks (Facebook, Instagram) or contact the project coordinator via www.pesg.hr.