The Montenegrin Olympic Committee (MOC), through a dedicated and systematic approach, has taken significant steps to promote gender equality in sports leadership. Recognizing the underrepresentation of women in key decision-making positions within sports federations, the MOC has tailored its actions to address these challenges and create conducive environments for female leadership.

Last year, as part of these efforts, the MOC organized the initial preparations for a comprehensive workshop during the Athletes’ Mental Health Forum. This preliminary step was crucial in recognizing that women athletes and professionals in sports often face barriers when aspiring to take on leadership roles. The forum served as an excellent platform to raise awareness about the importance of empowering women and fostering leadership skills among female sports stakeholders.

In June, during the General Assembly, the MOC further reinforced its commitment by introducing the Women4Sport initiative, outlining its core goals, and providing a concise presentation on the critical steps sports federations must undertake to increase female participation in leadership. These steps included promoting transparent selection processes, providing targeted mentorship programs, and fostering inclusive organizational cultures.

Building on this momentum, September marked a significant milestone with the main workshop for members of the executive board. This event was designed specifically for those in leadership positions, emphasizing their role in driving change and supporting gender diversity at the highest levels of sports governance. The workshop was led by Deputy Secretary General Maja Peković, who shared insightful strategies on how newly elected women members can leverage their positions to empower their colleagues, develop leadership pathways, and promote a more diverse and inclusive sports sector.

The results spoke: by the end of 2024, the NOC of Montenegro successfully achieved a 150% increase in the number of women on its Executive Board, surpassing initial targets and demonstrating tangible progress. This remarkable improvement is a testament to the effectiveness of the initiatives implemented and the collective commitment of all involved stakeholders.

Looking ahead, the MOC remains committed to sustaining this positive trend. Continued education and mentorship programs will be prioritized to ensure that women are not only represented but also actively engaged and influential within sports organizations. Equally important is engaging male representatives of sports federations, who play a crucial role in fostering an environment of equality. The MOC emphasizes that their support is vital in ensuring that women can fully participate in leadership roles without facing barriers.

The Montenegrin Olympic Committee’s efforts exemplify how strategic action, targeted education, and inclusive policies can lead to meaningful change. By nurturing future female leaders and encouraging male allies to champion gender equality, the MOC aims to establish a more equitable and dynamic sports community in Montenegro, setting an example for the region and beyond.