As the world celebrates International Women’s Day today, the President of the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC), Dr Robin Mitchell has reiterated the crucial role of gender equality in sports and society.
Dr Mitchell highlighted the progress made in promoting gender equality within the Olympic Movement, emphasising ONOC’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity.
“Gender equality is not just a moral imperative; it’s a fundamental principle that drives progress and prosperity,” Dr Mitchell said.
“At ONOC, we recognize the transformative power of sports in advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls.”
Recent statistics from the Pacific Games and the ONOC Secretariat reveal encouraging trends towards gender balance in sports participation. The Solomon Islands XVII 2023 Pacific Games recorded 44.75% female and 55.25% male participation, reflecting a growing presence of women and girls in athletic pursuits.
Similarly, the ONOC Secretariat boasts a gender ratio of 47.62% females and 52.38% males, highlighting strides towards gender parity within the organization.
Dr Mitchell acknowledged the importance of ONOC’s Equity Commission in driving initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality across the Oceania region.
“Our Equity Commission plays a pivotal role in advocating for equal opportunities and representation for women and girls in sports,” Dr Mitchell said.
“Through targeted programs and initiatives, we are working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape.”
About ONOC
Established in 1981, the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) is one of five Continental Associations. It looks after the interests of 17 member nations in the Oceania Region, including Australia and New Zealand as well as seven associate members.
ONOC has an office in Guam where Secretary General Mr. Ricardo Blas is based and the Secretariat in Suva, Fiji, where the Office of the President Dr Robin Mitchell is located.
All services and-programmes are based on the ONOC Strategic Plan for 2018-2021, and its 4 Core Functions of (1) Building and Strengthening NOCs Capacity (2) Cultivating Strategic Partnerships (3) Contributing towards Sporting Excellence and (4) Leading by Example.
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