Lausanne: The Swiss Government, host cities, Swiss Football Association (SFA), and UEFA have pledged to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment at this summer’s UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland through a joint human rights declaration.
The declaration, signed today, outlines the responsibilities of each stakeholder and emphasizes the importance of collaboration in fostering a positive atmosphere for all involved—players, coaches, officials, staff, volunteers, and fans alike.
UEFA’s Commitment to Human Rights
UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis highlighted the significance of the declaration, stating: “The UEFA Women’s EURO represents the pinnacle of European football. The unprecedented growth of the women’s game is driven by our strategic vision to make football the most played team sport for women and girls across the continent. We are also deeply committed to working collaboratively to promote and uphold human rights at our flagship events. Today’s declaration speaks highly of our commitment, and we are grateful to the Swiss federal government, the host cities, and the Swiss Football Association for their joint efforts.”
A Framework for Inclusion and Responsibility
This declaration is the result of close cooperation between UEFA and key stakeholders, guided by the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 human rights advisory board. The board comprises representatives from civil society, diversity and inclusion experts, public authorities, national associations, and former players.
Building on the successful human rights efforts from UEFA EURO 2024 in Germany, this initiative aims to leave a lasting positive impact beyond the tournament’s final in Basel on 27 July. The declaration aligns with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the Council of Europe’s Recommendation on human rights and business, ensuring an ethical and responsible tournament framework.
Swiss Federal Councillor and Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection, and Sport, Viola Amherd, reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment, stating: “With this declaration, we are committed to diversity, equal opportunities, and inclusion in and through sport. UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 gives us the chance to create positive momentum far beyond the field of play.”
UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 ESG Strategy
The human rights declaration is a key pillar of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, which focuses on three core objectives:
- Reducing environmental impact wherever possible;
- Protecting and respecting rights across all ages, backgrounds, nationalities, and abilities;
- Embracing transparency, responsibility, and accountability throughout all tournament operations.
With these commitments, UEFA aims to ensure that Women’s EURO 2025 is not just a sporting spectacle but a catalyst for long-term social and environmental progress.
