September 21, (THEWILL) – The Women in Football group has unveiled a new “Open Doors Agenda” calling for football’s governing bodies to implement reforms promoting gender equality and stamping out harassment in the sport.
The six-point plan was launched after recent controversial comments by FIFA’s president and the inappropriate actions of a national federation head. Women in Football CEO Yvonne Harrison said the agenda aims to create fully inclusive workplaces where women feel safe to report issues. Proposals include independent members on executive boards, clear procedures for dealing with discrimination and abuse complaints, and minimum 30% female representation in senior roles.
Harrison said she feels proud leading the women-driven organisation’s call for change through considered actions, not alienation. She defended the strong stance, saying appropriate consequences, even dismissals, are needed for unacceptable behaviours.
WIF board member Monique Choudhuri highlighted the plan’s mandatory targets for women in leadership as vital for equal representation in decision-making. She said the group is spotlighting structural inequality and backing its case with data.
The 8,000 member organisation already works to empower women in football through training programs. Chair Ebru Köksal said the new agenda builds on this by campaigning for solutions so decision makers enact positive reforms. She said the group’s independence allows it to be a voice for change.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
