by Nina Vaclavikova
Interviews: Emilia Mezzetti, President of the Soroptimist Club Trieste; Maurizio De Blasio, Councillor for Education, Family Policies, and Equal Opportunities; and Elisa Lodi, Trieste’s Councillor for Sports
The Municipality of Trieste has formally endorsed the “Ethical Charter for Overcoming Gender Gaps and Discrimination in Sports,” an initiative promoted by the Soroptimist Club of Trieste. The announcement was made this morning during a press conference held in the City Hall’s Sala Giunta.
The event was attended by Trieste’s Councillor for Sports, Elisa Lodi; Councillor for Education, Family Policies, and Equal Opportunities, Maurizio De Blasio; and Emilia Mezzetti, President of the Soroptimist Club Trieste.
The Charter aims to promote gender equality in sports and raise awareness around the systemic barriers that can limit women’s participation and representation, both on and off the field. Officials described it as a collaborative effort developed over several months.
“After many months of work, we are pleased to present a project that emerged from our meeting with the Soroptimist Club Trieste,” said Lodi. “The initiative, which also involved Councillor De Blasio in his role overseeing equal opportunities, centers around women and sports—a timely and important topic.”
By signing the Charter, the city commits to supporting policies and actions that promote inclusivity, challenge stereotypes, and ensure equal access to sporting opportunities for all genders.
The Charter is part of a broader movement in Italy and across Europe to foster equality in athletic environments and recognize the social and educational role sports play in shaping community values.
No specific programs were announced today, but officials suggested future initiatives will include awareness campaigns, training opportunities, and partnerships with local sports associations.
The Soroptimist Club, an international organization committed to improving the lives of women and girls, emphasized the symbolic and practical value of the Charter, calling it a step toward more equitable civic engagement through sport.
