TAFISA and IWG Sign MoU to Strengthen Gender Equity in Sport for All

On 27 March, TAFISA and IWG Women and Sport have signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding, reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing gender equity and inclusion through the global Sport for All movement.

The MoU builds upon a constructive meeting held at TAFISA Headquarters in Frankfurt last year, where the two organizations identified key opportunities to revitalize their collaboration. By working more closely together, TAFISA and IWG aim to amplify their efforts in promoting safe, inclusive, and equitable participation for women and girls in sport around the world.

The signing took place during the TAFISA European Sport for All Forum hosted at the Landessportbund Hessen in Frankfurt, Germany. The MoU sets the foundation for stronger alignment and cooperation on mutual priorities, including advocacy, capacity-building, and the promotion of safe and inclusive environments for women and girls in sport.

Reflecting on the significance of the MoU, IWG Secretary General Lisa O’Keefe shared:

“I’m pleased we have been able to progress our relationship with TAFISA by signing this MoU with them, and we look forward to more regular contact, promoting each other’s activities and supporting each other on projects which are mutually beneficial to our organizations’ objectives. TAFISA is a leading international body in the Sport for All movement and to have their support is invaluable. I can’t wait to continue building our relationship and collaborating in areas that will really make a difference.”

Jean-François Laurent, TAFISA Secretary General, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the broader purpose behind the collaboration:

“Gender equity is not a stand-alone issue—it is integral to the mission of Sport for All. This MoU reflects our commitment to working together with IWG to create a safer, more inclusive and equitable sporting world. By combining our strengths, we can empower women and girls everywhere to break down barriers and participate fully, safely, and confidently in sport and physical activity.”

Representing IWG at the signing, Abby Burton, Head of Strategic Communications, also delivered the opening impulse presentation of the Forum’s first plenary session, titled “Beyond the Game: Coaching Girls to Break Barriers and Stereotypes in Sport for All.” She addressed global challenges to gender equity in sport and emphasized the importance of safe, inclusive coaching environments in fostering long-term participation of girls. TAFISA’s Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway was featured as a leading example of good practice in this field. Burton concluded with an invitation for delegates to connect with the IWG network and to take part in the upcoming IWG Global Summit, a key platform for sharing knowledge and advancing action.

Through this renewed partnership, TAFISA and IWG aim to drive global momentum for gender-inclusive policies, programs, and leadership in sport—ensuring that no one is left behind.