Addressing interpersonal violence in sport is the aim of the Pacific Advisory Council for the IOC Safe Sport Regional Hub Initiative Feasibility Study which met at The University of Queensland for the first time this month.
Pacific leaders including Fijian Table Tennis Paralympian Mere Roden and Safeguarding and Gender Equality Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Advisor for Team Up, Roshika Deo, attended the meeting of the council which is working to create safer sporting environments for all across the Pacific Island Region.
With a focus on leveraging the work that is already being done in the region, the council looked at the extensive networks that already exist to ensure the voice of the Pacific is central to the project.
The council will now continue the work of developing a blueprint for the IOC's Safe Sport Hub Regional Hub Initiative in partnership with The University of Queensland to support the establishment of a regional safeguarding hub in the Pacific Islands.
The hub will support those experiencing interpersonal or gender-based violence in sport, strengthen localised prevention and protection, and improve cooperation and coordination between local sport- and non-sport-based safeguarding systems and services.
Director of the Queensland Centre for Olympic and Paralympic Studies at UQ, Professor John Cairney , is leading the feasibility study.
"We met with these Pacific Island leaders to gain knowledge and shape a bold vision of what a sports hub looks like. We now have a deeper understanding of sport in the Pacific and the risks associated with interpersonal violence," Professor Cairney said.
"The concept idea is a place - virtual and physical - that will support people who are experiencing abuse or violence in their sport. A place of safety, understanding and culturally appropriate support.
"Athletes are often young, spending time away from their families, are vulnerable. While our ultimate aim is prevention, having a safe and trusted place to report and receive support is essential. This doesn't exist but is needed."
The project is part of the University's plan to create academic and research partnerships with sporting bodies to deliver positive Olympic and Paralympic outcomes. It reinforces UQ's unwavering commitment to building capacity, sharing knowledge, and driving collaboration across the region.
For more visit: https://global-partnerships.uq.edu.au/article/2025/03/uq-collaborates-ioc-tackle-violence-sport
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