FIFA regulatory framework for the protection of female players and coaches

Regulatory Framework Overview - The FIFA regulatory framework focuses on strengthening protections for female players and coaches, particularly regarding maternity, adoption, and family leave [1][3][4] - Amendments to the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP) were approved to provide minimum conditions for pregnancy and maternity protections [4] - The framework extends maternity protections to female coaches and supports family connections during international duty [5] Leave Entitlements - Female players and coaches are entitled to maternity leave of 14 weeks, with at least 8 weeks post-birth [7] - Adoption leave varies: 8 weeks for children under 2, 4 weeks for children aged 2-4, and 2 weeks for children over 4 [8] - Non-biological mothers are entitled to 8 weeks of paid absence, to be taken within 6 months of the child's birth [8] - Family leave cannot be taken concurrently with adoption leave for the same child [8] Contractual Stability and Fair Treatment - Contracts remain valid regardless of pregnancy, maternity leave, or adoption leave [7] - Termination of a contract due to pregnancy or related leave is presumed unjust, leading to compensation, sporting sanctions, and potential fines [8] - Players and coaches are entitled to two-thirds of their contracted salary during leave [7] Special Protections and Rights - Players can choose to continue playing or training during pregnancy, with club support [11] - Clubs must offer alternative work if a player feels unsafe to play or train [11] - Medical leave is available for health-related reasons, supported by a valid medical certificate [11] - Players and coaches can decide when to start and return from leave, with full salary upon return [12] Breastfeeding and Menstrual Health - Players and coaches are allowed to breastfeed or express milk as required, with clubs providing suitable facilities [14][15] - Menstrual health-related absences are approved with full pay guaranteed [19] Registration and Replacement Rules - Clubs can register a female player outside the registration period to replace a player on maternity, adoption, or family leave [17] - Players returning from leave can also be registered outside standard registration periods [18] National Implementation - The RSTP sets minimum standards that must be followed at the national level [20] - Member associations can implement stronger protections through their own regulations or collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) [20] - If national laws provide better protections than the FIFA framework, those laws take precedence [20] Support for National Team Players - Member associations are encouraged to provide family-friendly environments during final competitions, including accommodations, breastfeeding facilities, and childcare services [19]