Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa stands at the forefront of championing human rights in international sport with Caster Semenya

Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa reaffirms its commitment to championing human rights in international sport as it stands alongside Caster Semenya in her landmark legal battle against World Athletics.

The Grand Chamber hearing happening today (May 15, 2024) in Strasbourg, France, marking the latest chapter in Semenya's 15-year fight, underscores the firm's unwavering dedication to protecting fundamental human rights within the realm of athletics. At the heart of Semenya's legal challenge lies the contention that World Athletics' eligibility regulations for women athletes with differences in sex development unjustly mandate unnecessary and potentially harmful medical interventions, infringing upon her right to compete without discrimination.

In July 2023, the Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of Semenya, highlighting multiple violations of the European Convention on Human Rights. This pivotal decision recognized her right to be free from discrimination and affirmed her rights to privacy and physical autonomy. With confidence, Semenya anticipates a similarly favorable judgment from the Grand Chamber, emphasizing the importance of human rights in the governance of international sport.

"This is an important day in my journey as a human being and athlete," expressed Semenya. "In the fifteen years since then I have persevered with dignity in the face of oppression. The adversity I have overcome has helped shape me into a true champion and a compassionate mother, wife, sister, and daughter. I hope that the Court’s decision will pave the way for all athletes’ human rights to be fiercely protected, for once and for all, and inspire all young women to be and accept themselves in all their diversity."

Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa proudly represents Caster Semenya in this courageous battle, with Directors Gregory Nott and Patrick Bracher leading the legal team. For over a decade, the firm has stood by Semenya, advocating for justice and equality in sport.