"Safer and Healthier Sport for All Children"

The Conference will focus on the theme “Safer and Healthier Sport for All Children”, explored through two interrelated sub-topics.

The first will address the prevention, detection and response to violence and abuse in sport. National authorities and sports organisations should establish comprehensive safeguarding frameworks. These may include safeguarding plans, codes of conduct, safer recruitment procedures, case management, training and awareness-raising. Such frameworks should be grounded in human rights, promote equality and diversity, and ensure the inclusion and protection of children in vulnerable situations. Children and young people should also be involved in developing policies that affect them.

The second sub-topic will consider the role of sport in protecting and promoting the physical and mental health and well-being of children and young people. While sport can encourage achievement and excellence, expectations of child and young athletes must be balanced with their need for enjoyment, fulfilment and psychological well-being. Excessive pressure, harassment and unrealistic expectations can contribute to harmful behaviours, including substance misuse.

Sport should be promoted as a safe and inclusive environment for all children and young people, including those in vulnerable situations. Policies should take an intersectional approach, recognising and addressing the heightened risks of harm and the barriers to participation that some children and young people may face.