Safeguarding
World Rowing believes that it is a fundamental right of all individuals involved with World Rowing to be able to participate in a non-violent, safe and respectful environment.
World Rowing acknowledges its duty of care in this regard and is committed to creating and supporting an environment and a culture free from harassment and abuse. The welfare of all individuals involved with World Rowing is paramount. Behavior and actions that constitute harassment and abuse will not be tolerated.
All forms of harassment and abuse constitute a violation of the World Rowing Code of Ethics and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Code of Ethics.
Documents
World Rowing Safeguarding Courses
Recognising that safeguarding awareness is a key priority for International Federations, World Rowing has developed two online courses to strengthen knowledge and practice in this area.
Delivered through the World Rowing Academy, these courses provide essential tools to help create safe, supportive environments for all participants in rowing.
This introductory course equips athletes’ entourage members—such as coaches, parents, and support staff—with the knowledge and practical tools needed to foster a safe and supportive environment. The focus is on protecting Rowing athletes and ensuring that everyone involved in the sport contributes to a culture of respect and wellbeing.
Safeguarding in sport involves proactive measures to protect participants from harassment and abuse through effective prevention and response. World Rowing is committed to building an environment free from harassment and abuse, including at all sanctioned events.
This short course provides fundamental guidance for safeguarding officers appointed by World Rowing and Local Organising Committees. It outlines their roles and responsibilities, helping them approach their duties with confidence. By designating safeguarding officers as a key function within event structures, World Rowing ensures that safeguarding remains central to the sport.
Creating a safe environment in Rowing is a shared responsibility. These courses are designed to empower participants and officers alike to uphold the highest standards of safety and respect.
For any questions regarding World Rowing’s Policy & Procedures on Safeguarding, please contact the World Rowing Safeguarding Officer: safeguarding@worldrowing.com
IOC Safe Sport
Through its work on safe sport the IOC is taking steps to strengthen safeguarding across the Olympic Movement and to protect and promote the mental well-being of athletes.
The IOC’s mission is to place athletes at the heart of the Olympic Movement, and since 2004 the IOC has been committed to developing programmes and initiatives to ensure that every athlete can train and compete in a safe sporting environment – one that is fair, equitable and free from all forms of harassment and abuse.
Additional Resources
International Safeguarding Children in Sport guidelines – this is available in several languages
International helplines:
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
The Council of Europe: Article 1. (ii) of the European Sports Charter (version dated 2001)
UNESCO: Article 10.1 of the Revised International Charter of Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport (version dated 2015)