New Broadcast Guidelines Aim @ Protecting Female Athletes!

Cousins get into this! The way women’s sports are filmed could soon look different!

The European Broadcasting Union has introduced new guidelines encouraging broadcasters to avoid camera angles and production techniques that unnecessarily sexualize female athletes during sporting events! An attempt to keep the focus on athletic performance rather than appearances.

This guidance is part of the EBU’s “Raising the Bar” initiative, created to promote more respectful and balanced coverage of women’s sports. The 23 page resource includes examples of camera shot and editing styles that should be avoided, like lingering close-ups of women’s bodies or angles that could place athletes in compromising positions! The recommendations also address the use of slow-motion replays, encouraging broadcasters to avoid replaying moments that emphasize an athlete’s body instead of the action taking place in the competition.

While it makes perfect sense to some, other’s may not understand the years of criticism from athletes, fans, and advocacy groups who argue some TV coverage has prioritized appearance over performance! Research has shown that women in sports have often received different treatment than their male counterparts, with broadcasters more likely to focus on physical features rather then accomplishments on the field/court/track. [SOURCE]

These EBU guideline are not legally binding and there aren’t currently any penalties for broadcasters that choose not to follow the recommendations. Still supporters believe the changes could help shift the conversation back to competition, skill, and achievement while creating a more professional viewing experience for audiences around the world!

Do you think broadcasters should adopt these guidelines, or do the angles captured of women athlete’s have no real impact on how you watch their sport?

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