International sports governing bodies (SGBs) sit at the centre of power in global sport — but what does that mean for safeguarding?
In this episode, we examine the role of sports governing bodies (SGBs) in shaping safeguarding systems, exploring what policies currently exist, how they are implemented, and where gaps continue to expose athletes and other sport actors to harm. The discussion looks at how safeguarding responsibilities are distributed across international federations, national bodies, and event organisers, and where governance structures weaken effective protection.
A central focus is the balance between prevention and response. While education and awareness are frequently prioritised, the episode examines whether reporting mechanisms, investigations, and sanctions are sufficiently independent and robust. Questions of power, transparency, and cultural relevance emerge as key factors influencing whether safeguarding measures function in practice.
The episode also examines how SGBs can work with other stakeholders and international organisations to strengthen safeguarding practice, highlighting where progress has been made — and where gaps remain. Ultimately, this discussion challenges sports leaders to move from administrative compliance to culture change and towards structural responsibility, and to lead by example in dismantling impunity across sport.
This episode features Claudia Villa, a safeguarding and human rights expert with extensive experience across sport and humanitarian sectors, currently working with international organisations to develop and implement safeguarding standards.
This episode was recorded in July 2025.
Further readings recommended by the guest in this episode:
• “The Routledge Handbook of Mega-Sporting Events and Human Rights”, edited By William Rook, Daniela Heerdt. Routledge (2024).
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