www.sportgvp.eu Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them (Project Number: 101133538). Practical resources to prevent, identify and address GBV incidents in sports A recurring problem in sports, GBV affects sports professionals at all levels including coaches, athletes, and other personnel. It manifests as harassment, discrimination, physical assault, and coercion and calls for a methodical approach to diagnosis, prevention, and reaction. UN Women (2021) claim that sporting events significantly help to promote gender equality and guarantee secure surroundings. Establishing defined procedures and sensible plans helps athletes to have the required instruments to properly handle GBV (Safe Sport International, 2020). Moreover, sports organisations have to realise their responsibility in preserving a zero tolerance for GBV by including operational structures and preventative actions within their institutional systems. GBV in sports spans amateur and elite levels rather than only professional environments. Acknowledging that many events go unreported because of stigma, fear of reprisals, or mistrust of reporting systems is vital (WHO, 2013). Eliminating these obstacles will help to guarantee that everyone working in sports environments feels supported and safe. Eliminating these obstacles and promoting a more responsible sports community depends critically on inclusive policies, thorough training programmes, and easily available reporting mechanisms (UNESCO, 2020). Recognising and identifying GBV in sports Finding GBV in a sports setting calls for knowledge of warning indicators and risk factors. WHO (2013) claims that GBV in sports is caused in part by unbridled power imbalances, strict gender norms, and a lack of responsibility systems. Recognising GBV also depends on understanding the part that institutional silence and the normalisation of negative behaviours play. Ignoring or tolerating inappropriate behaviour—such as sexist language, exclusionary team dynamics, or abusive coaching techniques—creates an environment in which more severe forms of GBV can flourish (Our Watch, 2015). Early intervention and prevention depend on a society where athletes feel free to share their experiences (Safe Sport International, 2020). Organisations should also routinely evaluate risk issues in their surroundings, including lack of clear reporting systems, inadequate GBV awareness training, and regions of sports facilities maybe causing dangerous situations (UNESCO, 2020). Indicators of GBV may include, but are not limited to: ● Behavioural changes, including nervousness, unwillingness to engage in activities, avoidance of particular people, and increased agitation. ● Physical signs, including injuries, bruises, cuts, difficulty in sitting or walking, or other injuries. Physical signs may be accompanied by attempts to conceal the said injuries. ● Emotional signs, including mood swings, increased anxiety and feelings of hopelessness. Preventing GBV in sports Efforts for prevention have to be proactive. Our Watch (2015) underlines the need of putting organisational policies addressing GBV into effect in line with inclusiveness and respect. The creation of educational programmes that equip staff, coaches, and athletes with an understanding of gender equality, consent, and bystander intervention techniques are top priorities for sports organisations. Training plans should include frequent seminars to help to reinforce these ideas. These plans may integrate activities found in the previous chapters of the present toolkit.
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