Sports and politics join forces to fight bullying

Sport is a competitive activity, which can lead to pressure being put on children not only by their peers but also by coaches, which can go as far as bullying and harassment, according to the campaign. Time Out was launched last week by Flemish sports minister Philippe Muyters and hurdlers Eline Berings and Axelle Dauwens.

The campaign has five goals: developing a shared vision on bullying, gathering support for a bully-free sport environment, preventing bullying, finding ways to react effectively to incidents and taking concrete measures to ensure permanent bully-free sports.

“The Flemish government will ensure that sports leaders and assistants receive all the necessary knowhow and support to fight bullying effectively,” said Muyters. “Together we will work to create a bully-free sporting environment in which every child can grow in every way.”

Photo courtesy Vlaamse Hockey Liga