LEGAL CHALLENGES IN REGULATING SPORTS GOVERNANCE AND ATHLETES' RIGHTS IN PAKISTAN

The paper will expound on the complex issues of sports governance and athlete rights in Pakistan. The system in Pakistan, in terms of sports industry policy, is very disorganized and lacks modernity despite the growing significance of sporting activities in social advances and the worldwide depicted role. The major issues include the lack of regulation, poor enforcement systems, and limited attention paid to the rights of the athletes. Differences that exist between business and governmental bodies also make governance more difficult, as the national sports activities bodies and national governments do not always manage to act effectively, resulting in mismanagement and loss of accountability. Moreover, an athlete experiences a challenging scenario involving a lack of agreement and insufficient representation and coverage against discrimination and maltreatment. The absence of clear rules on athlete welfare, anti-doping regulations, and dispute decision mechanisms undermines the improvement of a truthful and transparent sports environment. This research observe highlights the pressing need for complete legal reforms, more advantageous institutional coordination, and training to safeguard athlete rights and ensure properly governance. Strengthening the framework is crucial for Pakistan to align with international sports standards and empower its athletes efficaciously.