Qatar’s expanding sports sector is playing a key role in advancing opportunities for women and girls, according to a European Union official speaking at a panel discussion held in Doha to mark International Olympic Day. Angelos Lenos, deputy head of Mission and head of Political Section at the European Union Delegation to the State of Qatar, said the event underscored a shared commitment between Qatar and the EU to promote women’s rights through sports.

The panel provided a platform for some of Qatar’s pioneering female athletes to share their personal experiences regarding participation, development, and institutional support in sports. Lenos emphasized the importance of these discussions, noting the integral roles played by both formal institutions and family support in fostering women’s growth, both personally and professionally.

Highlighting Qatar’s commitment to creating a safer and more supportive environment for women in sports, Lenos referenced the country’s active engagement at both national and international levels. He cited Qatar’s involvement in a core group that helped promote a resolution at the Human Rights Council last year focusing specifically on women’s participation in sports.

Since the EU Delegation’s establishment in Qatar in 2022, Lenos said the organization has collaborated with several Qatari institutions to advance shared values around gender equality and inclusion. These partners include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Aspire Academy, Qatar Foundation, Qatar Financial Centre, the Olympic Museum, and Hamad Bin Khalifa University. The cooperation aims to support gender equality initiatives and promote inclusive policies aligned with EU values.

Lenos credited Qatar’s leadership for driving progress in women’s sports, describing strong governmental support as a critical factor. He expressed confidence that women’s participation in sport will continue to expand, projecting a future where more female athletes represent Qatar on competitive stages.

Beyond athletic achievements, Lenos underscored the broader significance of women’s participation in sport, pointing to its role in increasing visibility, fostering community inclusion, and promoting social change. He also noted that the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 played a pivotal role in accelerating the country’s profile as a global sports destination, creating momentum for further events and competitions.

The discussion ultimately highlighted sport’s potential as a platform that nurtures confidence, leadership, and inclusion. It demonstrated the importance of collaborative support from institutions, families, and communities in helping women and girls succeed at every stage of their sporting endeavors.