BWF Introduces ‘Equal Gender Representation’ and ‘four-term’ limit on its President’s position

In order to line with the International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s recent directive of it’s National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to maintain gender equality in decision making positions by 2020, Badminton World Federation (BWF) during it’s Annual General Meeting approved changes to its constitution.

The BWF places a ‘four-term limit on its president’s position besides approving the introduction of “geographical and gender representation” or gender euality in its council.

And ensured “at least 30 percent of each gender of Council and among the representatives from each continental region.”

The BWF membership even ‘passed proposals to include the Chair of the Para Badminton Athletes’ Commission in the Council’.

BWF president Poul- Erik Hoyer said in a release, “I want to congratulate the Membership for passing the landmark vote to approve the constitutional change. It is to ensure gender equality on the BWF Council and for taking another important step to improve our governance practice by bringing in a vetting process for officials of the BWF.”

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Hoyer also acknowledged that BWF is ranked third in Summer Olympic Internationals Federation’s review of International Federation governance.

“The virtual AGM today has allowed us to complete our governance requirements to host our AGM every year before 31 July. But also to deliver some important decisions to ensure we continuously improve our government practice over time. This fantastic news of badminton that we are doing very well in this area… it’s a great sign for the future of badminton and I congratulate everyone on these outstanding results.”

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the international calendar stands suspended. Although in May, the BWF had unveiled a revised international calendar to salvage the remainder of the season. However, with the global crisis showing no improvement it might be possible that many events will be canceled.

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