Luanda: Paulo Kalesi, Director-General of the National Children's Institute (INAC), announced at a recent seminar in Luanda that INAC has recorded over 2,700 cases of violence against children in sports out of a total of 31,894 complaints nationwide in 2024. This revelation underscores an urgent need for action in protecting children within sporting environments.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Kalesi disclosed these statistics during a training seminar titled "Principles of Children's Rights in Sports." He emphasized the alarming nature of these figures, noting that for every 2,000 children, 715 have experienced some form of violence in sports. He stressed the importance of implementing stricter measures to prevent and punish crimes, including sexual violence, against children in sports.
Kalesi further detailed that the data was gathered through the "SOS Child" hotline. He highlighted the necessity of internal reporting mechanisms within clubs and academies, thorough background checks for coaches, and mandatory training for professionals working with children. These measures should be based on the newly presented manual on children's rights in sports.
Amandine Bollinger, head of Child Rights Protection at UNICEF in Angola, supported this initiative, noting its aim to establish robust protection systems, accessible reporting lines, and clear policies to support victims. She stated that the launch of The Principles of Children's Rights in Sport manual would foster collaboration between national and international institutions, enhancing the safety and fairness of sporting environments for children.
Bollinger also mentioned that rates of interpersonal violence in sports vary globally, with prevalence rates ranging from 44% to 86% depending on the type of violence, sport, and demographics. The initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure children's dignity, safety, and rights are upheld in all sporting contexts.
The event acknowledged Angola's progress in child protection within sports, which has led to the country's invitation to participate in a continental initiative by the African Union Sports Council in partnership with Child Helpline International.
