Perceptions and experiences of world karate referees: Implications for gender (in)equity

Abstract

This study, which focuses on women referees in the karate branch, is therefore of unique value. The study group of the research consists of 23 women and 32 men participants. In the research, a questionnaire form consisting of quantitative and qualitative questions prepared by the researcher was used as the data collection tool. 58.2% of the participants state that men and women referees have equal rights in the karate branch; 50.9% stated that there were women referees in their respective commissions. In addition, 43.6% emphasized the numerical scarcity of women referees in their countries. Considering the analysis of the equality in sport and women five different outputs are given. The results of this study are thought to contribute to a better understanding of the participation of women in karate refereeing positions in all countries of the world.