Canary Islands Establish Protocol to Protect Children from Violence in Sports

{"title":"# Canary Islands' New Protocol for Child and Teen Safety in Sports","introduction":"The Canary Islands government has introduced a new protocol aimed at safeguarding children and teenagers from violence within sporting environments. This move aligns with Spain’s broader commitment under Law Orgánica 8/2021, which mandates public authorities and sports organizations to create safe, inclusive spaces for minors.","current_context":"- Despite widespread promotion of sports among youth—supported by regional, local, and private entities—implementation of protective measures has lagged.\n- The new protocol provides clear guidelines for sports clubs, federations, and educational centers to prevent, detect, and intervene in potential violence, ensuring all sports activities adhere to legal protections.","background":"This initiative comes after years of call for better coordination among various government departments, including health, social services, and education, to address child protection comprehensively. With joint efforts, authorities aim to close the gap between legislation and practical enforcement, creating safer sport environments that support children's well-being and development.","key_features":"- Emphasizes training staff, monitoring compliance, and fostering collaboration across organizations.\n- Demonstrates the regional commitment to making sports a space of enjoyment and growth, free from violence.\n- Critical in a context where youth sports are a fundamental part of community life.","quotes":">"}