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Global Athlete backs Okagbare on athletes’ rights

 

 

Global Athlete, a new international athlete-led movement has backed Blessing Okagbare‘s call for athlete rights at the 12th African Games in Rabat, Morocco.

Global Athlete backs Okagbare on athletes' rights
Nigeria Sprinter, Blessing Okagbare has faulted the Athletics Federation of Nigeria for including on the list for the Africa Games without her consent

The world body was reacting to Okagbare’s social media reaction at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) following her inclusion in list for the 12th African Games without her knowledge.

In an open letter to athletes and delegates at the 2019 African Games, athlete-led organisation Global Athlete publicly backed Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare after she spoke up about athlete rights ahead of the competition in Rabat, Morocco.

On her Twitter handle in July, the former Commonwealth Games champion said: “Who this list helps? Can they please tell us what and when we will be getting our training grant, please?”

In its letter obtained from Insidethegames.biz, Global Athlete said it would stand side-by-side with all athletes from Africa to ensure their rights are protected and there is no retribution for the basic human right of speaking up.

It added: “We encourage all athletes to use their voice. Remember, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athlete Declaration of Rights and Responsibilities clearly states that all athletes have the right to freedom of expression.

“Athletes’ voices will change the future of sport for the better – now is the time to join the growing band of athletes all over the world by standing tall and being vocal for positive change and meaningful engagement!”

The letter was signed by Global Athlete Director General Rob Koehler and group start-up member Akwasi Frimpong however, encouraged sports leaders at the African Games to ensure fundamental rights are upheld and that a clear mandate must be sent to African Government leaders for athletes to have an equal say on meaningful compensation and training plans.

“The Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) must follow the IOC’s words that Olympic Solidarity is there to help athletes from nations in need. It is time for the funds to be sent directly to athletes and not through third parties,” the statement said.

Global Athlete aims to help athletes gain a more represented voice in world sport, recognising that the neglection and suppression of the athlete’s voice has gone on for too long.

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