Lisbon, Portugal – February 24, 2026 – In a significant move to bolster safeguarding measures within the sport, the Fédération Française Handisport (FFH) has appointed a dedicated prevention officer for sexist and sexual violence. This initiative, announced today, underscores a growing commitment across the sporting world to address and prevent harmful behaviors, creating a safer environment for athletes and participants at all levels. The appointment is a key component of the FFH’s 2025-2028 federal program focused on prevention.
The French Handisport Federation’s decision comes as part of a broader effort to confront what has develop into a pervasive issue in sports globally. While the specific details of the program are still unfolding, the FFH’s proactive stance signals a recognition of the need for systemic change. The organization began laying the groundwork for this program in 2024, demonstrating a sustained commitment to addressing these critical concerns. This isn’t simply about reacting to incidents; it’s about building a culture of respect and safety from the ground up.
A Dedicated Role: Quentin Schillé Appointed as Prevention Officer
Quentin Schillé has been officially named as the FFH’s référent prévention des violences sexistes et sexuelles – prevention officer for sexist and sexual violence. This newly created position is central to the 2025-2028 federal program, designed to structure and strengthen preventative actions within French handisport. Schillé’s role will be strategic, focusing on implementing and overseeing initiatives aimed at reducing risks and fostering a climate of trust within the organization.
The FFH recognizes that simply acknowledging the problem isn’t enough. Effective prevention requires a methodical and coordinated approach. Key elements of the program include training for leaders and officials, raising awareness among young athletes, and establishing clear protocols for reporting incidents. The program also addresses the growing concern of online violence and provides guidance on interpreting potentially risky situations. This holistic approach aims to not only minimize harm but also enhance the appeal of handisport as a safe and inclusive activity.
Addressing a Systemic Issue in Sport
The issue of sexist and sexual violence in sports is not unique to handisport, or even to France. It’s a global challenge that demands attention and proactive measures. Factors contributing to the problem include the anonymity afforded by large events, close physical proximity between participants, a lack of diversity in leadership positions, and, in some cases, a culture that normalizes aggressive or disrespectful behavior. These conditions can unfortunately be exploited by perpetrators targeting vulnerable individuals. The French Ministry for Equality between Women and Men highlights these contextual factors in a comprehensive toolkit on addressing sexual and sexist violence in sport.
The FFH’s initiative aligns with a growing international movement to prioritize athlete safety and well-being. Organizations worldwide are implementing similar programs, recognizing that a safe sporting environment is fundamental to fostering participation and achieving athletic excellence. The focus is shifting from simply punishing perpetrators to preventing abuse from occurring in the first place. This requires a fundamental change in attitudes and behaviors, as well as robust reporting mechanisms and support systems for victims.
The 2025-2028 Federal Program: Key Pillars
The FFH’s 2025-2028 federal program is built around several core pillars:
- Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing clear and accessible channels for reporting incidents of violence, ensuring that victims sense safe and supported.
- Prevention of Digital Violence: Addressing the increasing prevalence of online harassment and abuse, providing guidance on safe online practices.
- Risk Assessment: Developing the capacity to identify and interpret potentially risky situations, enabling proactive intervention.
- Training and Education: Equipping leaders, officials, and athletes with the knowledge and skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to violence.
By integrating these dimensions, the FFH aims to create a comprehensive and effective prevention strategy. The program’s success will depend on the active participation of all stakeholders, from athletes and coaches to administrators and volunteers. A key aspect will be fostering a culture where reporting is encouraged and victims are treated with respect and compassion.
Handisport and the Broader Context of Athlete Safety
The FFH’s commitment to prevention is particularly key within the context of handisport. Athletes with disabilities may face unique vulnerabilities, making them potentially more susceptible to abuse. Ensuring their safety and well-being requires a heightened level of awareness and sensitivity. The FFH’s proactive approach demonstrates a dedication to inclusivity and equity, recognizing that all athletes deserve to participate in sport without fear of harm.
The appointment of a dedicated prevention officer and the implementation of the 2025-2028 program mark a decisive step in the fight against sexist and sexual violence in handisport. However, Here’s just the beginning. Sustained effort, ongoing training, and a commitment to continuous improvement will be essential to creating a truly safe and inclusive sporting environment. The FFH’s actions serve as a model for other sporting organizations, demonstrating that prevention is not only possible but also essential.
Key Takeaways
- The Fédération Française Handisport (FFH) has appointed Quentin Schillé as its prevention officer for sexist and sexual violence.
- This appointment is part of the FFH’s 2025-2028 federal program aimed at creating a safer sporting environment.
- The program focuses on reporting mechanisms, prevention of digital violence, risk assessment, and training/education.
- The FFH’s initiative reflects a growing global movement to prioritize athlete safety and well-being.
The FFH will continue to refine and implement its prevention program over the coming months and years. The next key milestone will be the rollout of training sessions for leaders and officials, scheduled to begin in the spring of 2026. Further updates on the program’s progress will be available on the FFH’s official website. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences on this important issue in the comments below.