Abuse and gender-based violence in Argentine football

keys to analyze the issue from social sciences perspective

Abstract

This article delves into the relationship between abuse, football, and gender-based violence in Argentina by presenting a series of keys that must be considered when addressing such situations. To do so, I will draw on contributions from the field of social sciences that have problematized both football and gender-based violence. Given the complexity and multifactorial nature of the issue, I will not attempt to provide linear explanations or solutions for addressing the problem. Instead, I will present a series of clues to navigate it when analyzing a particular case. The article firstly contextualizes the public emergence of gender-based violence in Argentina. Secondly, it seeks to clarify the meanings of the category of gender-based violence, differentiating it from other types of violence. Thirdly, it aims to identify some aspects of the football environment in Argentina and how it promotes a masculine socialization that values certain aspects of masculinity, which are also valuable for those players seeking a professional football career. Fourthly, it addresses how the growth of women’s football in Argentina, within a context of feminist advances, has led to a questioning of normalized violence and inequalities. Finally, it reflects on gender spaces within Argentine clubs and the importance of institutional action protocols for preventing and addressing violence.

Submission: Jun 06, 2024 ⊶ Accepted: Aug 29, 2024