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Group photo with the members of the Mauritius Olympic Committee
In an effort to raise awareness about children’s rights in the context of sports, the Office of the Ombudsperson for Children collaborated with the Mauritius Olympic Committee to participate in a workshop titled “Safeguarding Children’s Rights in the Sports Context,” organised on 16 November 2024. The event brought together 35 participants, including athletes and coaches, to engage in meaningful discussions and training on the rights of children in sports and the ethical responsibilities of those working with young athletes.
The workshop provided a comprehensive overview of key child rights principles, emphasising their importance in ensuring a safe and supportive sporting environment.
Key topics covered included:
- Right to Safety: Ensuring sports environments are free from abuse, bullying, and harm.
- Right to Inclusion: Promoting equality and non-discrimination, ensuring all children have equal access to sports regardless of gender, race, or ability.
- Right to Development: Highlighting the role of sports in children’s physical, emotional, and personal growth.
- Right to Play: Advocating for equal opportunities for all children to participate in sports, with a focus on accessibility and affordability.
Participants were also informed about coaches’ ethical responsibilities, with a focus on fostering an environment that respects and upholds children's rights. This was complemented by a discussion on the legal framework surrounding children's rights in Mauritius, particularly the Children’s Act 2020, which establishes protections for children in various spheres, including sports.
Practical tips for coaches were provided on how to identify and prevent abuse, promote fairness, and ensure that children’s voices are heard. Emphasis was placed on the necessity of maintaining professional boundaries and the legal consequences of failing to safeguard children’s rights.
The workshop concluded with a call for greater accountability in sports organisations, urging all involved to actively contribute to the protection of children’s rights and to make sports a safe, enjoyable, and empowering experience for young athletes.
The Office of the Ombudsperson for Children is committed to continuing its efforts in raising awareness and providing support to ensure that children's rights are upheld across all sectors, including sports. This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to promote the well-being of children and ensure that their voices are heard and respected in every arena of life.
Source: The Office of the Ombudsperson for Children, Mauritius
