DSAC reaffirms its support for Caster Semenya in court
The DSAC reaffirms unwavering support for Caster Semenya as she heads to the European Court of Human Rights in France.
In a resolute stance, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) reaffirms its staunch support for Caster Mokgadi Semenya as she returns to the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights in France.
The court is poised to deliberate on whether the double Olympic champion should be mandated to lower her testosterone levels for participation in competitions.
DSAC DIRECTOR-GENERAL AFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO FAIRNESS AND EQUALITY IN SPORTS
DSAC Acting Director-General Cynthia Khumalo asserted, “The department is committed to advocating for fairness and equality in sport. As the country celebrates 30 Years of Democracy, every athlete, regardless of their gender or physical attributes, should have the right to compete without facing unjust obstacles.”
“We trust that the Grand Chamber’s judgment will uphold these principles and deliver a positive outcome for Caster and all athletes affected by similar challenges.”
Additionally, collaborating closely with the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), Norton Rose Fulbright (NRF), Probono.org, and various other stakeholders, the government stands in solidarity with Semenya in her legal pursuit.
DSAC STANDS FIRM ON SEMENYA’S ONGOING BATTLE AGAINST GENDER-BASED DISCRIMINATION
Highlighting the significance of the upcoming hearing on 15 May, DSAC emphasised Semenya’s enduring struggle against gender-based discrimination.
The department underscored the formidable challenges posed by the 2019 regulations imposed by World Athletics, which particularly affect athletes with Differences in Sex Development (DSD).
The CGE echoed the call to rally behind Semenya’s quest for justice, recognising its potential to bring about transformative change for athletes worldwide. Advocate Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale, Chairperson of the CGE, stressed the importance of the Grand Chamber’s ruling in delineating public human rights law over private legal matters.
Furthermore, DSAC reiterated the violations highlighted by the Court in the case of Switzerland versus Caster Mokgadi Semenya, encompassing discrimination, denial of effective remedies, and infringements on private life.
Moreover, the government’s unwavering support for equitable resolutions has been a consistent stance, with DSAC expressing optimism that the Grand Chamber’s decision will uphold the principles of justice, inclusivity, and diversity integral to the South African sporting landscape.
DSAC LAUNCHES COMPREHENSIVE CAMPAIGN TO RALLY SUPPORT FOR SEMENYA’S CAUSE
In addition to legal efforts, DSAC is actively engaging in public awareness campaigns to garner support for Semenya’s cause. Through media outreach, community events, and educational initiatives, the department aims to foster a broader understanding of the issues at hand and promote a culture of inclusivity and respect within the sporting community.
As the case progresses, DSAC remains committed to standing alongside Semenya and all athletes who face similar challenges, championing their right to compete on equal footing and without discrimination.