Last week, the European Athletes and Players Association participated in the 18th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers Responsible for Sport and other accompanying events held in Port, Portugal.
The theme of the Ministerial Conference was: “Governing and governance in sport, supporting a fresh approach to match its societal importance.” and gathered over 200 participants from more than 50 countries, including Ministers and other government officials, Council of Europe and EPAS representatives, members of the EPAS Consultative Committee and observers.
In her intervention, Paulina emphasized the importance of athletes’ rights and called for enhanced social dialogue in the sport. “With numerous challenges facing the sport sector today, social dialogue is an opportunity for athletes and employers to negotiate adequate solutions, tackling specific problems and taking into account the rights and interests of different parties”.
She also highlighted the crucial role of the Member States, Council of Europe and EPAS in safeguarding the fundamental rights for athletes. “Athletes need you to ensure the respect and protection of the fundamental rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining. To recognise the importance of the independent athlete and player associations. To promote and engage in social dialogue and provide institutional support. They simply need you to create a legal and political framework in which they can fully exercise their rights, improving sport for athletes and all involved.”.