Every child deserves the opportunity to play, move and grow in a safe and supportive environment. This message was at the heart of the 19th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers Responsible for Sport, held in Monaco on 3–4 November 2026, with the participation of TAFISA President Janez Sodrznik. Hosted at the Grimaldi Forum under the theme "Safer and Healthier Sport for All Children", the conference gathered around 300 participants, including 25 ministers and state secretaries. H.S.H. Prince Albert II and H.S.H. Princess Charlène of Monaco, together with Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset, took part in the high-level programme.
For the international Sport for All movement, the discussions raised an essential question: How can we ensure that opportunities for physical activity are not only available to children, but also safe, enjoyable and beneficial to their development? Participants explored ways to prevent violence and abuse, protect children's mental and physical health, and create positive sporting experiences. The conference concluded with the adoption of a ministerial resolution calling for stronger cooperation and practical action to make sport safer and healthier for children and young people.
These priorities are closely connected to TAFISA's Mission 2030, which recognises sport and physical activity as powerful tools for improving lives and strengthening communities.
TAFISA is already translating these principles into action. Its Safeguarding Policy provides a framework for protecting participants, while initiatives such as the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway promote positive and safe coaching environments. Through safeguarding education and the REACH youth engagement project, TAFISA also supports organisations and young people in building a more inclusive and responsible Sport for All movement.
For TAFISA, the message is clear: Sport for All must also mean Safe Sport for All. Ensuring that children feel protected, respected and encouraged to participate is fundamental to building a healthier and more active world.
