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2024-11-13 11:28:00
The Minister of Sport and Youth Gil Avérous communicated these data on Tuesday 12 November on the sidelines of the national conference for the prevention of violence in sport.
Created in December 2019 to collect and process testimonies of violence in sport, the Signal-Sports platform currently listed “five to six reports a day”, as announced on Tuesday 12 November by the Minister of Sport and Youth Gil Avérous. “Now, the victims who did not dare to speak, because they were made to believe it was unspeakable, are taking the plunge”he observed during the national conference for the prevention of violence in sport, which took place at the Maison du sport français in Paris.
Previously, the Signal-Sports unit dealt exclusively with sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). From now on it also collects cases of psychological, moral and psychic violence. Therefore, 66% of these reports involve VSS, compared to 85% last year.
The majority of those involved are men (89.5%), including a large number of sports instructors (81%). On the other hand, more than 70% of the victims are women and 71% were minors at the time of the accident. A third of the victims are even under 15 years old (33%). The Signal-Sports platform has thus formalized a partnership with the minor office of the national directorate of the judicial police.
93 cases of legal proceedings
In total, more than 1,500 administrative investigations have been initiated since the unit was created. In 2024 alone, 392 cases were recorded and almost 400 people were implicated. In detail, 93 of these cases were the subject of judicial proceedings, either through transmission to the Public Prosecutor’s Office or through the filing of a complaint. “Things have evolved quite a bit, which doesn’t mean everything has stopped […]. I believe the best way to put an end to this is to identify those who are individually at the source.”added Gil Avérous.
From 2021, volunteer sports instructors are also subject to a good repute check, which allows them to check their criminal records. This system has also been extended to judges, referees, swimming supervisors and those who work with minors. “The integrity check is in full swing. Since the beginning of this year, 2.8 million checks have been made… So I think it will pay off soon”concluded the minister.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert on Violence in Sport
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special interview segment. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Claire Martin, a renowned expert in sports psychology and violence prevention. Recently, the Minister of Sport and Youth, Gil Avérous, shared some alarming statistics regarding violence in sports during a national conference in Paris. Dr. Martin, thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Claire Martin: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial topic that needs our attention.
Time.news Editor: Indeed it is. The Minister reported that the Signal-Sports platform is now receiving between five to six reports of violence in sport each day. This is a significant increase in visibility, isn’t it?
Dr. Claire Martin: Absolutely. This platform, created in December 2019, has given a voice to many who felt unheard. The fact that victims are now willing to come forward shows a shift in societal attitudes towards speaking out against abuse. It’s a huge step forward for the sporting community.
Time.news Editor: In your opinion, what factors do you think have contributed to this change in mindset among victims?
Dr. Claire Martin: There are several factors at play here. First, the increasing global awareness around issues of sexual and gender-based violence has empowered individuals to come forward. Secondly, initiatives like the Signal-Sports platform provide a confidential space to report their experiences without fear of retribution. Lastly, more advocacy from athletes and organizations emphasizing the need for safe sporting environments has helped to normalize these conversations.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of the reports, we’ve seen a shift in the types of violence being reported. Previously focused on sexual and gender-based violence, the Signal-Sports platform is now also collecting reports on psychological, moral, and psychic violence. What does this indicate about the nature of violence in sports?
Dr. Claire Martin: This broader focus is significant. While sexual violence remains a critical issue, psychological abuse can be just as damaging. By recognizing and addressing these other forms of violence, we begin to understand the full spectrum of harm that can occur in sports environments. It’s vital that we create cultures in sports that prioritize mental well-being alongside physical safety.
Time.news Editor: The statistics are indeed striking, with 66% of the reports now involving various forms of violence. What challenges do you think still exist in addressing these issues within the world of sports?
Dr. Claire Martin: One of the main challenges is the stigma associated with reporting. Many feel that speaking out could jeopardize their careers or reputations. There is also a lack of comprehensive training for coaches and staff on recognizing and preventing various types of violence. Lastly, there’s often an organizational reluctance to confront these issues head-on due to fear of backlash or an evident lack of resources allocated for prevention and support.
Time.news Editor: Those are critical points. It seems crucial that sporting organizations take proactive steps—not just in response to reports, but in prevention as well. What do you think should be prioritized in the training and development of coaches and staff?
Dr. Claire Martin: Training must focus on creating a culture of respect and safety, and it should include recognizing the signs of both physical and psychological abuse. Moreover, they should be equipped with tools on how to respond appropriately when someone comes forward with allegations. integrating mental health resources into sports programs is essential so athletes know they have support beyond their physical training.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Martin, your insights are invaluable, and it’s clear that we have much work to do in creating safer environments in sports. Thank you for joining us to discuss this pressing issue, and for your ongoing work in advocating for athletes’ rights and well-being.
Dr. Claire Martin: Thank you for having me. It’s a team effort, and I hope we continue to push for change together.