FIDE has partnered with Safe Sport International to begin developing a protective framework within FIDE.
Initial efforts include the development of an overarching protection policy that addresses how FIDE and its members manage the various aspects of protection within a global organization, including issues of sexual harassment and the protection of children and other vulnerable persons. The policy will also take into account international standards and guidelines that represent the most appropriate benchmarks for application by FIDE.
In this first phase, discussions will also initially take place between SSI advisors and key officials of FIDE and some other stakeholders to define the policy and related procedures that will be part of the protection framework.
FIDE is committed to diversity and inclusion, as expressed in its statutes. One of FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich’s key priority areas during his first term was increasing the number of women in all areas of the chess ecosystem. This renewed focus requires the creation of “safe spaces” and associated operational infrastructure for women to thrive.
In addition, FIDE continues to participate in numerous social action projects. e.g. Chess for Protection and Chess for Freedom, as well as Chess in Education. With this comes a broader and more complex population being served and this creates additional responsibilities when dealing with at-risk or vulnerable individuals.
In this context, FIDE turned to Safe Sport International as a partner that has the relevant expertise in this very sensitive topic.
Vice Chair of the FIDE Board of Directors, Dana Reizniece-Ozola, noted that this is a very important step by FIDE: “As a global chess organization, FIDE understands its role in setting an example for the protection of our chess community. “We are pleased about this.” We are working with Safe Sport International, which has extensive experience in this area, and look forward to having a practical and effective framework to guide our internal operations as well as our almost 200 member associations.”
Neal Anderson, Chief Operating Officer of Safe Sport International, was also pleased with this commitment: “We are pleased to work with the International Chess Federation in our shared commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone in the chess community.” At Safe Sport International We believe in the power of collaboration and, through our advisory services, provide our expertise to assist FIDE in developing its security policy. We look forward to a successful partnership that will ensure a safer and more inclusive future for chess in the world.”
About Safe Sport International
Everyone, everywhere safe in sports
Safe Sport International (SSI) is the leading non-profit organization working to end all forms of interpersonal violence, abuse and harassment in sports worldwide. SSI puts research and athlete voices at the heart of its work with government and non-government agencies, international and national sports organizations, competitive sports organizations, athletes and other sports participants.
SSI consultants have been involved in all major developments in safe sport over the past 15 years. In particular, they have worked with the United Nations, International Olympic Committee, Council of Europe, UNICEF, FIFA, Commonwealth Games Federation, English Football Association, International Netball Federation, Philippines Rugby, ATP Men’s Tennis Tour, World Rugby and many others Organizations.
Comments are closed.