Rugby is a global sport rooted in values of respect, integrity, solidarity, passion, and discipline. Yet, the power structures that govern the game - from the World Rugby Council to its boards and committees - remain disproportionately dominated by a small group of nations, primarily from traditional rugby strongholds, as well as being overwhelmingly unbalanced in terms of regional, racial, and socioeconomic representation. This imbalance limits the voices of emerging unions, stifles innovation, and undermines the sport’s global growth and inclusivity.

 

Despite rugby’s stated commitment to diversity, equity, and global development, meaningful participation in the sport’s highest decision-making forums remains unequally distributed. The result is a governance model that does not fully reflect the sport’s international reach, cultural diversity, or the aspirations of the millions who play and support rugby beyond the traditional core nations. As the sport continues to grow worldwide, especially in emerging rugby nations and among women and underrepresented communities, the leadership of rugby must evolve to reflect the diversity of the global rugby family.

 

 

 

Our Call:

 

We, the undersigned, call for reform and for equal representation across all levels of rugby governance and leadership. This includes but is not limited to:

1. Implement equitable regional representation and parity in Decision-Making:

Equal regional representation on all boards, councils, and committees dealing with international rugby affairs within World Rugby.

2. Regional Equity:

Equal representation and voting power for all regional unions in World Rugby’s voting and executive structures, ensuring a truly global voice in key decisions.

3. Transparency and Accountability:

Clear, public reporting on the composition of governing bodies and measurable progress toward equal representation as well as the public release of clear data regarding representation, voting power and results by region within World Rugby and regional associations

4. Pathways for Inclusion:

Investment in leadership development programs for women, Indigenous peoples, and communities historically excluded from rugby governance.

5. Create a Global Rugby Development Forum: guaranteeing emerging unions a direct voice in shaping the game’s future, funding priorities, and competition structures.

6. Cultural Competence and Ethics:

Mandatory inclusion training for all board members and executives to promote equitable governance and respect across all rugby cultures.

7. Commit to gender-balanced leadership: 2 Parallel governing bodies mirroring one another in structure for male and female. Men’s rugby comprising fully of men and women’s rugby comprising fully of women.

8. Establish term limits: a maximum term of 1 World Cup cycle (4 years) for all Chairpersons or Heads within all boards, committees and councils and unions.

9. Transparent selection criteria: for all council, board, union and committee positions to promote accountability and diversity.

10. Fair distribution: The presence of offices and operations in every region represented, as well as creating regional advisory panels to provide insights and guidance on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by each region.

11. Representative Clarity and fairness: The removal of independent status to representatives, replaced by a clear classification of one’s region by proof of residency of at least 10 years in a region which the member chooses to represent.

 

By adopting these changes, World Rugby can create a governance structure that respects and promotes the growth of rugby everywhere. Such actions would not only strengthen the sport’s global appeal but also encourage greater participation and investment in underrepresented regions

 

Why It Matters

Rugby’s credibility as a global sport depends on fair representation. Equal representation is not just fair; it is essential for the sport’s integrity, sustainability, and global growth. Equal voices will lead to more inclusive competitions, better resource distribution, and stronger pathways for developing nations. Diversity in leadership will drive innovation, growth, and long-term sustainability for the global game.

 

Our Vision

A world where rugby’s leadership reflects its players and fans — diverse, dynamic, and truly global.

A sport where every region has a seat at the table, every voice is heard, and every nation has a fair chance to shape rugby’s future. We ask for our demands for reform to be met within 30 days of the completion of the men’s Rugby 2027 World Cup (for men’s rugby) and within 30 days of the completion of the women’s Rugby World Cup 2029 (for women’s rugby)

 

We Stand for One Rugby — Equal, United, and Global.

 

Sign this petition to call on World Rugby to implement equitable regional representation and ensure that rugby’s governance truly reflects the world it serves.