From 11–14 June 2026, the International Seminar for Female Referees was held in Niš, Serbia.
The main aim of the seminar was to test, evaluate and improve the newly developed Training Guidelines for Female Referees before their finalization and wider dissemination. Through practical discussions, feedback sessions and exchange of real experiences, participants assessed the relevance, effectiveness and applicability of the guidelines in different sport contexts.
The event also created an interactive space to discuss challenges faced by women in refereeing, share good practices, strengthen cooperation between stakeholders and promote mentorship opportunities for female referees.
As a result, the Training Guidelines were evaluated and refined, an international seminar report was developed, and a stronger network of female referees and relevant stakeholders was created.
The seminar represents an important step toward increasing the visibility, participation and support of women in refereeing and sport decision-making.
Alliance of Amateur Basketball Referees (AoABR) from Serbia, in partnership with Hate Fighters Network (HFN) 
, Barcel’hona Sports Events (BSE) 
, and JuvenTagus 
, proudly launches the project “Empowered Female Referees” – a bold step toward gender equality in sport, with a special focus on empowering women in officiating roles.
What’s it all about?
Creating innovative tools & training to uplift and support female referees
Promoting equal participation on and off the field
Encouraging dual careers for female athletes
From in-depth research and hands-on training to local and international testing of guidelines and a wide-reaching awareness campaign — this project is making real impact across Portugal, Serbia, and Spain from November 2025 to January 2027.
Co-funded by the European Union, “Empowered Female Referees” is not just a project — it’s a movement for fairness, visibility, and change.
Alliance of Amateur Basketball RefereesBarcel’hona Sports EventsJuvenTagus Associação
Alliance of Amateur Basketball Referees 