Conclusions: progress, stability and future possibilities

In this concluding chapter, we summarise and critically discuss aspects of progress and stagnation of gender diversity in decision-making in European sport organisations. We not only explore how various institutional practices of the NSFs promote gender equity but also reflect various expressions of ignorance, resistance and a safeguarding of the status quo. The authors of the chapters in this book show how in their country or sport, a commitment to democratic rather than meritocratic principles is beginning to receive more traction. This tendency suggests that the legitimacy of male dominance as a structure of power is changing. The authors also reveal, however, how gender-equality issues, especially the adoption and implementation of gender quotas, were initially resisted and how such attitudes and practices have influenced the speed with which change occurred. We conclude by suggesting several future possibilities for creating more gender-inclusive structures and cultures in European sport governance.