The IPC wishes to ensure that sports practised within the Paralympic Movement are led by the spirit of fair play, where violence is banned, the health risk of the athletes is managed, and fundamental ethical principles are upheld. In support of this, the IPC has adopted the Safe Sport International Declaration.
The IPC considers that every individual is entitled to live and work in an environment that is free from embarrassment, discomfort, intimidation or humiliation arising from acts of non-accidental violence and abuse, including those perpetrated knowingly and deliberately (acts of commission) or negligently (acts of omission), that undermine both the mental and physical health of the individual and the integrity of sport.
All athletes and other sport participants have the right to enjoy a safe and supportive sport environment.
The IPC Policy
The IPC have therefore produced a Policy on Non-Accidental Violence and Abuse in Sport This policy is part of the IPC Handbook.
Types of harassment and abuse
Recommendations for responding to non-accidental harms
If you are experiencing non-accidental harm, recommendations to responding can include, but is not limited to:
- Victims should clearly communicate to the harasser that his/her behaviour is unwelcome, unacceptable, and offensive. Be as direct as you can, particularly when the alleged harasser may have reason to believe that the behaviour is welcomed, normal or appropriate.
- Victims can confidentially inform and seek support from a coach, official, colleague or any other senior person you have confidence in.
- Victims can take personal action by filing a formal or informal complaint to the appropriate (legal) authority.
- Witnesses should report non-accidental harms to a third party and the appropriate authorities.
- Document any behaviour directed towards you which is abusive in nature. Include witnesses, how you dealt with the situation and who you talked to about the situations. Inform your NPC, IOSD, IF or the IPC (medical@paralympic.org) about any accusations.
Safeguarding during the Paralympic Games
The IPC has put in place a specific Games-Time Reporting Procedure for the durations of the Paralympic Games and applies to all Games participants. It details how incidents of harassment and abuse in sport can be reported during the Games period and the case management procedures.
To learn more or if you suspect an incident of harassment or abuse of any kind during the Games you can report it to the IPC Welfare officer at the Polyclinic and/or complete a reporting form.
The IPC welfare officer, with a central role in managing cases of harassment and abuse, will be on site based at the Polyclinic during the Games A private conversation/meeting can be arranged by sending an email or via the Mind Zone staff. Email contact: medical@paralympic.org.
Please note that conversations and reporting will be dealt with in full confidentiality.
Where can I get additional information?
For information on non-accidental violence and abuse in sport, please consult:
8
