Petr Parshakov discussed gender inequality in cybersport

On November 21, 2024, the head of IDLab, Petr Parshakov, presented a report titled 'Gender, Results, and Prizes: A Study of Discrimination in the Pay of Women’s Teams in Esports' at the Scientific and Educational Laboratory for Sports Research at HSE University.

Petr Parshakov's research addressed the issue of gender inequality in esports, paying particular attention to the differences in viewership and prize pool sizes between men's and women's teams. The analysis utilized data from the ESL Impact League (women's tournaments) and comparable men's leagues. Using regression analysis methods, patterns indicating existing discrimination were identified: women's teams receive fewer views and prizes, even when demonstrating comparable game results.

Discussions following the presentation not only clarified directions for future research but also proposed new approaches to creating a fairer prize distribution system in esports. 

'Joint seminars are extremely useful for exchanging ideas and receiving constructive feedback. It is especially valuable to gain support from colleagues who help look at the problem from different perspectives. This is an important step in the development of research,' Petr Parshakov emphasized at the conclusion."