The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has updated its guidelines for how Olympic-affiliated media and outside outlets should appropriately cover athletes in regard to their diverse identities. The updated guidelines, released just weeks ahead of the Summer Olympics in Paris, urge media not to refer to transgender athletes as “biological males” or “females.”
According to the IOC’s “Portrayal Guidelines,” using terms like “biologically male” or “biologically female” in reference to trans athletes is considered “problematic.” The guide emphasizes that a person’s sex category is not solely based on genetics and can be altered through gender-affirming medical care.
The language guide also provides tips on how to break gender-based preconceptions and stereotypes in sports coverage. It highlights key barriers to equal portrayal in sports, such as the gender pay gap and the tendency to comment more on female athletes’ appearances compared to male athletes.
Additionally, the guide includes advice on using inclusive language, such as replacing terms like “mankind” with “humankind” and using “partner/spouse” instead of “husband/wife.” It also lists terms to avoid when referring to transgender athletes, such as “born male,” “born female,” “biologically male,” and “biologically female.”
The IOC’s updated guidelines aim to promote gender equality and fair representation of all athletes across all forms of media and communication. The guide was developed in collaboration with GLAAD, a leading pro-LGBTQ lobby in the country.
As the Paris Olympics approach, the IOC is taking steps to ensure that all athletes are treated with respect and dignity in media coverage. The guide serves as a resource for journalists and media outlets to promote inclusive and fair representation of athletes of all genders and identities.
