Sport, Identity and Inclusion in Europe

Abstract

This book explores and critically assesses the challenges and experiences of LGBTQ people within sport in Europe. It presents cutting-edge research data and insights from across the continent, with a focus on sport policy, sport systems, and issues around anti-discrimination and inclusion.The book introduces the theoretical and methodological foundations of research into LGBTQ people in sport and then presents in-depth comparative surveys of systems and experiences in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the UK, and Spain. A final section considers the effectiveness of policy in this area and motives for participation, and looks ahead at future directions in research, policy, and practice.Tracing the frontiers of our understanding of the experiences of LGBTQ people in contemporary Europe, this is fascinating reading for anybody with an interest in the sociology of sport, sport policy, LGBTQI studies, gender and sexuality studies, or cultural studies.

Female elite sports achievements in Iran. The Case of the First Olympic Medalist

“…Internationally, for example, Iranian women footballers were banned from competing in sports events over the past years as a result of the perception of the hijab as a religious symbol that is incompatible with sports participation, amongst other things (Ayub, 2011). On the national level, some religious leaders have indicated how sharia (Islamic religious law) and participation in international sports competitions are incompatible with each other (Hartmann-Tews and Pfister, 2003). They, for instance, criticised the televised screening of the Iranian women's national karate team in the 2014 Asian Games, calling women's participation in such sports events, 'contrary to women's virtue' (Guardian, 2015) and a 'fight against (Islamic) values' (BBC, 2016).…”