Empowering a safer future for kids in sports – Abu Dhabi’s new policy ensures protection, participation and well-being for all young athletes!

The Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi has launched the Child Protection Policy for Sports Entities

It marks a significant step toward creating a safer and more inclusive environment for children involved in sports activities. The initiative is designed to ensure that children can enjoy sports without the risk of harm, promoting their well-being both physically and emotionally.

Collaboration with Key Organizations

Developed in collaboration with key organizations, including the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), the Family Care Authority (FCA), and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), the policy aligns with Federal Law No (3) of 2016, also known as the Wadeema Law, as well as its executive regulations. This new policy applies to all sports entities in Abu Dhabi and to all workers and volunteers involved in sports activities outside of educational institutions.

Commitment to Child Welfare and Safety

His Excellency Mohamed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of the Community Engagement and Sports Sector at DCD, emphasized that the policy underscores the department’s ongoing commitment to protecting children. ‘The Child Protection Policy in the Sports Entities reflects our dedication to fostering the welfare and safety of children, ensuring they can grow and thrive in a supportive environment,’ he said. ‘This is a crucial step that aligns with our leadership’s vision to protect children’s rights.’

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Core Principles of the Policy

The policy introduces four core principles: the right of children to participate in sports, zero tolerance for child abuse, accountability and the promotion of a safe and supportive environment. One of its key features is the appointment of child protection coordinators within sports entities, coupled with mandatory training for workers and volunteers. This training ensures that everyone involved in sports activities is equipped to respond to potential risks and violations.

Stronger Reporting and Accountability

Furthermore, the policy outlines stringent procedures for reporting and addressing violations, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. It encourages sports entities, parents and workers to collaborate and assume their responsibilities in safeguarding children from harm.

Clear Guidelines for Reporting Abuse

The Child Protection Policy also provides clear guidelines for reporting any suspected or alleged cases of abuse, neglect, or violence. Employees working directly with children in sports entities are required to report any such cases immediately. The policy further stresses the roles of parents, careers, athletes and volunteers in addressing these issues and promoting a positive environment that emphasizes sportsmanship, respect and healthy social interactions.

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Legal Frameworks to Protect Children

In addition, the policy includes legal frameworks to prevent individuals who may pose a threat to children from participating in any sports-related activities or environments where they could interact with children. It also outlines collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure that the rights of all children participating in sports are protected.

Zero Tolerance for Abuse and Discrimination

The newly implemented policy prohibits all forms of child abuse, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; neglect; exploitation; bullying; and discrimination based on race, age, gender, nationality, religion, or developmental delays. It was developed through the joint efforts of DCD, ADSC, FCA, ECA, and numerous partners in the health, education and sports sectors, including the UAE Pro League, the Ministry of Education, and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre.

Ensuring a Safe Environment for Children in Sports

Through these measures, the DCD aims to ensure that children participating in sports activities in Abu Dhabi are provided with the safest environment possible, allowing them to engage in sports while safeguarding their rights and well-being.

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