Erasmus+ Employs “Understanding, evaluating and improving good governance in the employment relations of athletes in olympic sports in Europe”
Project Description
EMPLOYS – Improving Athlete Employment Relations in Europe
EMPLOYS is an EU-funded Erasmus+ project led by the German Sport University Cologne. Its goal is to analyse athlete employment relations across Europe, assess current practices, and develop policy recommendations that strengthen working conditions and governance in Olympic sport. The consortium brings together five universities as well as athlete and sports organisations from across Europe.
Europe-Wide Research and Stakeholder Dialogue
In 2021, EMPLOYS conducted the first comparative study of athlete employment relations in 29 European countries (EU member states, the UK, and Norway). The findings were presented and discussed at international conferences in Cologne and Lisbon, bringing together athlete representatives, sports governing bodies, policymakers, and researchers. The study highlighted significant national differences while confirming the importance of improving employment conditions for athletes across Europe.
Towards Better Governance in Sport
Building on its research, EMPLOYS focuses on identifying principles of good governance in athlete employment relations. Through a series of stakeholder conferences and knowledge exchange activities, the project develops practical recommendations for sports organisations and public authorities. The project concludes with a final report outlining policy measures to strengthen athlete employment relations and governance in European Olympic sport.
