ACES had the honour of participating as a partner of UNESCO in the Fit for Life conference at Roland Garros in Paris, held under the theme: “At the Heart of the Game: Inclusion, Safeguarding, Equality.” The event took place at the newly opened Tenniseum – a hybrid of museum and auditorium – right as the second week of the Roland Garros tennis tournament got underway.

It was an inspiring setting for meaningful discussions on the role of sport in driving social impact, especially in the lead-up to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games. France is clearly continuing to push forward on important social agendas, particularly around inclusion, gender equality, and anti-discrimination in sport.

On behave of ACES board member André de Jeu had the opportunity to engage with key French stakeholders, including Marie Barsacq, French Minister for Sport, Youth and Associative Life, and Aurore Bergé, French Minister for Gender Equality and the Fight against Discrimination. We exchanged perspectives on the role of cities and municipalities, the importance of co-creation between national-, regional- and local governments, civil society, and citizens, and highlighted numerous global examples that already demonstrate what is possible.

A particularly noteworthy initiative discussed was the French government’s “Terrain d’Égalité” (“Level Playing Field”) label, launched in 2022. This certification is aimed at organizers of major (inter)national sporting events, encouraging them to promote gender equality, combat discrimination, and prevent sexual violence in sport. The label is part of the broader State Plan for Cultural Heritage Paris 2024 and was developed in collaboration with multiple ministries, sports organizations, and the French Olympic Committee.

To obtain the label, events must meet strict criteria, including:

Training on gender equality;

Inclusive and accessible organization;

Non-discriminatory communication;

Independent reporting mechanisms for misconduct.

The label is awarded based on an objective evaluation of 20 criteria by an independent body, overseen by a labelling committee comprising representatives from relevant ministries, the French sports movement, federations, and athletes involved in these issues.

This initiative could be of particular interest to European Sport Cities, Regions, and Capitals, as a way to ensure sport is truly inclusive and safe for everyone. Cities and sport have the power to lead this change – and perhaps it is time we start this conversation all around the world as well.