Semenya: World Athletics case is about human rights, inclusivity

She spoke at a media briefing with the Commission for Gender Equality and civil society organisations in Johannesburg on Friday.

Semenya, who is classed as having "differences in sexual development (DSD)" but has always been legally identified as female, has refused to take drugs to reduce her testosterone levels since athletics' governing body introduced new rules in 2018.

As a result, she has been barred from competing at her favoured distance of 800m.

The 33-year-old won a lengthy legal battle last July against Switzerland at the Strasbourg-based international court, which ruled she was the victim of discrimination.

But Swiss authorities, supported by World Athletics, have taken the matter to the European Court of Human Rights’ Grand Chamber, whose rulings are binding, with hearings slated to start on May 15.

Speaking to the SABC, Semenya said the case is about human rights, inclusivity, and helping young athletes.

“It is very important as an individual to know the basic rights. I think that’s what we have been missing throughout the years. These young athletes don’t really understand what they are getting themselves into. I’ve been facing the scrutiny for many years.

“We all know that this is about differences in women’s bodies and the main goal is that we protect these young kids so they can be able to compete. I urge you to come on board and cooperate. Whatever you have, just come help us fund the cause so that those young Africans and Asians that are affected by this ruling can compete.”  

Semenya on Friday appealed for help funding her legal battle against the regulations.

"We lack funds. We have a lot of experts that come in that we need to pay. Anything that you may contribute, it makes a huge difference".

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