Japan’s winning sports tradition shouldn’t include abuse
Japan needs to establish an independent Safe Sport Center to address abuse in athletics and ensure that recent legal reforms translate into meaningful protections for athletes.
Japan's athletes have captivated sports enthusiasts worldwide with both triumphant wins and heartbreaking losses in a multitude of sports, from soccer and tennis to volleyball, figure skating, gymnastics, swimming, and wrestling. Such moments of success do not emerge effortlessly; they are the result of years of rigorous training, often commencing in childhood.
Ideally, this journey should instill in children the joy of play, competition, and opportunities for physical, mental, and personal development. At Japanese sporting events, one frequently hears enthusiastic fans shouting "Ganbare!" ("Do your best!") or "Donmai!" ("Don't mind!") following a mistake, praising perseverance over perfection.
However, behind the scenes, this spirit often fades. Many young athletes instead face physical, verbal, and even sexual abuse in the very settings intended to aid their growth. Therefore, August 8, designated as Safe Sport Day, is of paramount importance. It is a worldwide occasion to recommit to ensuring sport is safe, inclusive, and accountable for all, including children, women, and individuals with disabilities.
Instituted in 2020 as part of the global safeguarding movement, this day is now recognized by the International Olympic Committee and organizations dedicated to safeguarding athletes globally.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
