From "Misogyny" to "Gender Equality": The Historical Progress of the Gender Equality in Olympic Movement and Its Social Implications

Based on the literature review and a historical sociological perspective, this paper analyzes the century-long progress of gender equality in the Olympic movement, exploring the mechanisms through which sports promote gender equality and their significance for social development. The findings reveal that gender equality within the Olympic movement has achieved significant progress on both explicit and implicit levels. Explicit equality is reflected in the gradual equalization of participation opportunities. Implicit equality, on the other hand, is evident in deeper aspects, including the optimization of event design, the enhanced roles and voices of women in sports organizations, and the balancing and adjustment of gender relations. The paper argues that the progress of gender equality in the Olympic movement is a dynamic process shaped by the interplay of ideas, institutions and the demands of the times. By establishing a comprehensive pathway from "sport" to "society", the Olympic movement advances gender equality through multiple dimensions, including individual empowerment, institutional development, social practice and cultural transformation. This approach not only highlights the unique value of sports as a catalyst for social change but also demonstrates their critical roles in fostering the development of a diverse, inclusive and sustainable society. Furthermore, it provides significant practical experiences and theoretical insights for the broader concept of "sport for development".