In the summer of 2019, the U.S. Women’s soccer team captured the world’s attention when they won gold in the world cup. But they were also capturing the world’s attention with their campaign for receiving equal pay to what the U.S. men’s soccer team makes.
Equality
Even though the U.S. Women’s team generates more revenue, and is more successful, they still are paid far less than their male colleagues. There is even currently a lawsuit that is ongoing as the U.S. Women’s team challenges this reality. While this is ongoing, we might ask, how is it with equal pay for athletes in other parts of the world.
In 2017, Norway became the first nation in the world to have equal pay for its female and male soccer teams. Shortly after this Australia and New Zealand announced that they would pay their athletes equally, and more nations have followed suit as well.
In a short interview with the Olympic Channel, captain of the Women’s Norwegian soccer team, Maren Mjelde reflects on this achievement, and what has happened since. She discusses how it is possible to have equal pay for both the men’s and women’s teams.
She also discusses how she is hopeful to see that other countries have since followed and the other parts of the world that are fighting for equal pay for their players. Athletes and their activism have often played an important role in shaping the dialogue of society. That is why it is very inspiring to hear about this story of another successful step taken to close the gender economic gap. Check out the short interview with Maren Mjelde here.
