February 17, 2026.- Signalling a clear action framework for 2026, the FIVB and the Global Observatory for Gender Equality and Sport (GO) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote gender equality and inclusion in volleyball worldwide.
The agreement represents a significant step in strengthening collaboration between the two organisations. Together, the FIVB and GO will work to further empower women in volleyball, support gender-balanced participation and ensure equal opportunities from grassroots levels to leadership positions.
Through the partnership, both organisations will develop joint research projects examining gender equality among coaches, as well as players and governance structures.
The GO will also provide strategic consultancy to help the FIVB implement programmes that ensure inclusion and gender equality. Additional activities will be agreed upon to support women’s participation, representation and leadership in volleyball.
The MoU was signed by Dr Lombé Mwambwa, CEO of the Global Observatory, whose work focuses on addressing inequalities in sport and facilitating multistakeholder partnerships. Speaking about the partnership, she said;
“Achieving gender equality in sport requires collaboration and sustained partnerships. To facilitate this effort, the Global Observatory is committed to providing concrete support to sport organisations such as FIVB which have demonstrated commitment and visionary leadership. Together we will leverage our respective missions and expertise to enhance the steps of the volleyball community towards greater gender equality for safe and inclusive participation of women and girls around the world. We are excited about this collaboration and look forward to sharing the outcomes and learnings for the wider sports sector to benefit from.”
Representing the FIVB, President Fabio Azevedo said:
“Volleyball is recognised as one of the most gender-equal team sports in the world, with women and men playing and following the sport equally, balanced global audiences and equal prize money for athletes. It is a priority for us to maintain this standard, and through our Strategic Vision 2032, the FIVB is committed to expanding opportunities, representation and investment in women’s volleyball at every level. We are proud to partner with the Global Observatory to ensure that women and girls not only have equal opportunities to play but also the chance to lead, inspire and shape the future of our sport.”
English 
Spanish