The European Judo Union is proud to announce the launch of two important new courses on its free e-Platform: Safeguarding Policies and Gender Equality. Both initiatives reflect the EJU’s commitment to promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone in the judo community.
Safeguarding Policies: https://www.eju-education.net/course/view.php?id=40
Gender Equality: https://www.eju-education.net/course/view.php?id=42
Safeguarding Policies: Building Safer Environments for Judo
The Safeguarding Policies course is designed for board members, safeguarding officers, and other responsible persons within EJU member federations. Whether federations are starting from scratch or looking to strengthen their existing structures, the course offers both foundational knowledge and practical steps.
Participants will explore:
- The basics of safeguarding and why it matters in judo
- International guidelines (IJF, IOC, BESST, Safe Sport International)
- How to assess what safeguarding measures already exist
- First steps and “quick wins” to begin creating a safeguarding culture
- How to establish a federation-level safeguarding policy
- Examples of good practice from EJU member federations
At the core of this project is Veronika Jakl, a work and organisational psychologist who also serves as Safeguarding Officer for the Austrian Judo Federation and, since 2023, as the European Judo Union’s Safeguarding Officer. In addition, she holds the position of Mental Health Officer with the International Judo Federation. Reflecting on the journey, Veronika shared:
“When I began safeguarding in Austria, I thought we needed a big, formal policy from day one. That isn’t true. Safeguarding can start with small but meaningful steps, like identifying a responsible person or simply putting the topic on a board meeting agenda.
“In my EJU role, I have seen how approaches vary widely across countries, shaped by culture, national laws, and leadership attitudes. That’s why I wanted to create one central place where people can start, improve, and share their safeguarding work, regardless of their background or resources. This course, with its lessons and forum, gives everyone that chance. It’s an important step for safe judo.”
Gender Equality: Striving for Balance
Alongside safeguarding, the EJU has also introduced a Gender Equality course. This programme aims to raise awareness, encourage best practices, and support federations in creating fairer and more inclusive opportunities for women and men at every level of the sport.
Both courses are completely free of charge and available now on the EJU e-Platform. They combine theory, practical advice, and interactive forums. The EJU warmly invites all members of the judo community to register, take part, and help shape the future of safe and inclusive judo.
Author: Szandra Szogedi