Athlete Safeguarding Policy

​

1. Purpose

The Azerbaijan Winter Sports Federation (AWSF) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all athletes. This policy aims to:
- Safeguard athletes from abuse, harassment, exploitation, violence, and neglect.
- Promote their well-being, dignity, and rights.
- Ensure that all members, staff, volunteers, coaches, officials, and other stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding.
- Align with the ISU Athlete Safeguarding Policy and the ISU Code of Ethics.
 

2. Scope

This policy applies to everyone involved with AWSF in any capacity, including athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, parents, guardians, staff, and board members. It covers all settings where AWSF athletes participate: training sessions, competitions, travel, accommodation, and any federation activities.
 

3. Definitions

- Harassment: Unwelcome behavior (physical, verbal, non-verbal) that is offensive, humiliating, or hostile.
- Abuse: Physical, sexual, psychological acts (or neglect) that harm an athlete.
- Sexual Harassment / Sexual Abuse: Behavior of a sexual nature that is unwelcome, coercive, or exploits power imbalance.
- Psychological Abuse: Repeated behaviors that diminish dignity, self-worth, or mental well-being.
- Neglect: Failure to provide basic care, supervision, or attention to athlete welfare./
 

4. Principles

- Athlete First: The welfare of athletes is paramount.
- Zero Tolerance: All forms of abuse, harassment and discrimination are unacceptable.
- Safe & Respectful Environment: Everyone has a right to be treated with respect and dignity.
- Accountability & Transparency: Clear responsibilities; fair processes.
- Confidentiality: Information shared should be handled sensitively and appropriately.
- Prevention, Not Just Response: Emphasis on education, awareness, safe practices.
 

5. Roles & Responsibilities

Entity - Responsibilities

AWSF Board / Leadership - Approve & oversee implementation of this policy; ensure resources; review periodically.

Safeguarding Lead - Key contact for safeguarding issues; ensure training; monitor compliance; report concerns.

Coaches & Support Personnel - Uphold safe practices; set good examples; follow policy; report concerns.

Athletes & Parents / Guardians - Understand rights; report concerns; cooperate with safeguarding measures.

All Members - Adhere to the policy; take required training; help build safe sport environment.
 

6. Reporting & Response Procedure

Reporting channels: safeguarding lead, email, hotline.

Process:
1. Acknowledge receipt.
2. Assess urgency and risk.
3. Gather information.
4. Maintain confidentiality.
5. Investigate fairly and impartially.
6. Apply disciplinary measures if necessary.
7. Provide support for the affected person.
No retaliation against reporters acting in good faith.
 

7. Education & Training

AWSF will provide regular training for safeguarding lead, coaches, officials, athletes, and parents. Topics include: recognizing abuse, safe practices, communication, reporting, and athlete rights.
 

8. Prevention Measures

- Screening processes for staff and coaches.
- Codes of conduct for all participants.
- Safe environments for training, competition, accommodation, and travel.
- Monitoring of workload, health, and well-being.
- Safe use of digital communications and social media.
 

9. Confidentiality & Data Protection

All reports are handled confidentially and information is shared only on a need-to-know basis. Data will be stored securely in line with national laws. Confidentiality limits (e.g., risk of harm) are clearly defined.
 

10. Disciplinary Measures

Breaches of this policy may result in sanctions including warnings, suspension, dismissal, or legal action. Procedures will be fair, timely, and documented. Appeals are allowed according to AWSF governance rules.
 

11. Monitoring & Review

This policy will be reviewed every 2 years or earlier if necessary. Feedback mechanisms include surveys and anonymous reporting. Reports to ISU will be made if required.
 

12. Implementation

Approved by AWSF Board on August 15, 2025.
Effective from August 15, 2025.
Communicated to all members, coaches, athletes, parents, and staff.
Training and resources will be provided.