The second annual TEAM UP Regional Safeguarding Workshop concluded yesterday at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, bringing together 65 participants from seven Pacific Island countries.
Gathering safeguarding focal points from Australian Government-supported sport for development programs across the Pacific, alongside regional service providers, to enhance safe sport practices.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural workshop, this three-day event focused on strengthening skills in reporting, referrals, and case management of safeguarding concerns within the sports sector.
Through interactive discussions and practical activities, participants gained valuable insights into addressing various forms of abuse and ensuring the well-being of all involved in sports, particularly women, girls, and people with disabilities.
Team Up Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion Safeguarding Adviser, Roshika Deo explained the workshop helps participants to understand how to report on a case.
“This workshop brought together sports administrators and service providers from across the Pacific, including those working in gender-based service and women’s rights organizations,” said Deo.
“Our goal was to strengthen the capacity of sports administrators, officials, and safeguarding focal points to confidently and effectively implement safeguarding protocols to create safe and inclusive sporting environments.”
Deo outlined three key objectives of the workshop that includes educating sports organizations on recognizing signs and symptoms of abuse in children and adults, including athletes, staff, volunteers, and officials, familiarizing participants with incident documentation and first-response protocols for handling reports or disclosures of violence in sports and introducing accountability mechanisms and case management processes, including escalation procedures and roles in investigations.
Participants also explored strategies for building stronger connections between safeguarding champions and service providers to enhance regional support systems.
“The workshop provided a platform to share experiences, discuss common challenges, and collaborate on solutions that prioritize the safety of all participants in sports.”
Supported by the Oceania Impact Network, this initiative is part of broader efforts to provide safeguarding training to sport for development programs and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) across the Pacific.
The workshop highlighted the shared commitment of regional stakeholders to create a sport ecosystem in the Pacific that is safe, inclusive, and empowering for all, contributing to a future free from violence and discrimination.
