Protocol Against Sexual Abuse, Harassment, Mistreatment And Discrimination In National Sports Activity: Chilean Model

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the process of implementing a new legal protocol intended to prevent and sanction behaviors of harassment, abuse, discrimination, and mistreatment in the sports environment.   Theoretical Framework: It is based on alarming statistics indicating a significant percentage of young athlete’s face abuse in sports globally. The literature examines power dynamics, the closeness between coaches and athletes, and the lack of effective protocols as factors facilitating abuse and sexual harassment.   Method: A qualitative methodology was adopted to analyze official documents related to the Supreme Decree from the National Sports Institute and the Ministry of Sports of Chile, involving thematic content analysis to extract explicit and implicit meanings from legal texts.   Results and Discussion: The findings revealed and highlighted the effectiveness of Decree 22, which introduces mandatory educational and preventive measures, and the designation of institutional representatives to manage complaints, demonstrating a significant advancement in sports legislation to protect athletes, particularly minors.   Research Implications: The research underscores the necessity for a systematic and rights-based approach to protecting athletes, suggesting that the Chilean model could serve as a reference for other countries.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature on violence in sports by detailing the implementation of an innovative legislative protocol in Chile, offering insights into how such measures can be replicated and adapted globally.