423 MISCELLANEOUS Associations must adapt their domestic rules, accordingly. Meanwhile, the RSTP clearly states that priority must be given to ensure that a female player who has returned from maternity leave is eligible to participate in domestic competitions, as well as the sporting integrity of the relevant competition. Cohesiveness It must be noted that the above-mentioned amendments are binding at the national level according to Article 1/3/a of the RSTP. Member associations are obliged to implement these provisions as a minimum standard, unless more favorable conditions are available pursuant to the application of national law. In other words, a minimum standard is to be applied globally where each member association is free to set higher and stronger provisions that protect female players within their national laws. The minimum standards for female players must also be implemented domestically by member associations no later than 30 June 2021. Conclusion The minimum regulatory framework provided within the RSTP is focused on specific employment matters of maternity and pregnancy and aims to provide protection for female players before, during, and after childbirth; a safe and inclusive work environment; and to ensure contractual stability. With the introduction of the amendments to the RSTP, fundamental rights of female players have begun to be protected on a regulatory basis. All of these minimum requirements set forth in the RSTP are in compliance with the minimum standards recommended by the International Labour Organisation’s Maternity Protection Convention, 2000.
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