As part of its ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and respectful environment for football players, the Haitian Football Federation (FHF) recently strengthened its commitment to safeguarding within the U-17 men’s national team.

Ms. Michelle Vanessa Gabriel Jean, the FHF’s Safeguarding Officer, conducted a series of awareness and training sessions targeting players and the technical team.

Interactive and educational sessions :

Three sessions were organized : two sessions with the players and one with the technical team. Through interactive visual modules, Ms. Jean addressed the concept of safeguarding, which aims to ensure the protection of young athletes and the respect of their rights. The players thus became aware of their fundamental rights as athletes, while the members of the technical team were trained in best practices for interacting with young people, thus promoting their sporting development in a healthy and respectful environment.

A code of conduct to ensure a safe environment :

During these sessions, a code of good conduct was distributed to each participant. This document formalizes the expected behaviors to ensure a respectful and safe environment for all. The discussions helped to deepen understanding of the issues related to the protection of young people, thus contributing to effective and beneficial awareness-raising at all levels.

A globally deployed approach within the FHF :

This initiative is part of a broader approach, since similar actions have already been carried out with the players of the senior women's national team during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. This safeguarding awareness program will be extended this year to all national selections, thus reinforcing the FHF's commitment to a safe and inclusive environment.

A commitment shared by FIFA and the FHF :

For both FIFA and the FHF, safeguarding is not just a requirement, but a fundamental priority. By focusing on training and awareness, these institutions are committed to providing a framework in which young athletes can develop with dignity, respect and safety.

A model of exemplarity for the future :

This initiative, which combines education and prevention, perfectly illustrates the FHF's desire to protect not only athletes, but also the integrity of football. Protection thus remains one of the Federation's key priorities, demonstrating its commitment to building a future where the practice of football will be synonymous with respect and protection for all.

HL/ BF/ HaitiLibre