Judo is more than performance. It is about people, values and the responsibility to lead. The future of judo is shaped by those who step forward, in federations, clubs and on the tatami. How do we turn our foundational values into everyday practice? Join leading experts from across Europe as they address the topics that matter most: mental health, inclusion, safeguarding and gender equality. Practical. Honest. Immediately applicable. Be part of the conversation. Be part of the change.
For the past two years, the EJU Human Rights Commission has been working behind the scenes, developing online courses and hosting small-scale exchanges on safeguarding, diversity and gender equality. Now, the time has come to bring these vital conversations to the wider judo community.
“This conference is not about following trends or ‘modern nonsense’,” says Veronika Jakl, EJU Human Right Commissioner. “It is the natural continuation of Jigoro Kano’s vision for the 21st century. Judo was always intended to be an educational system that prepares people for life. Today, that means addressing mental health, safety and inclusion with the same rigour we apply to technical training.”
In an era where parents have endless choices when it comes to extracurricular activities for their children, the human factor has become a defining mark of quality and a real competitive advantage.
“Parents want to know their children are in good hands,” Jakl explains. “Professional clubs and federations distinguish themselves by living judo values, not simply focusing on medals. Addressing human rights and mental health is a hallmark of a high-quality organisation.”
The organisers also recognise that many clubs are run by volunteers with limited time and resources. For this reason, the tools and strategies presented during the conference are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing training structures.
Whether you are a high-performance coach, a club president or a dedicated volunteer, this conference offers practical blueprints for building a safer, stronger and more inclusive judo community.
Join the movement. Professionalise your passion.
Programme
Date: Friday, 03 July 2026
Time: 17:00 – 20:30 CET
Throughout the programme, participants will also have the opportunity to engage in discussions and interactive sessions designed to encourage open dialogue and active involvement from everyone attending.
| Welcome address | Dr Martin Poiger, EJU Secretary General |
| Diversity & Accessibility | Andrew Scoular (EJU Human Rights Commission, British Judo) |
| How to get your club “Safe Combat”-certified | Juliane Robra (Sport Evolution Alliance, Judo Switzerland) & Prof. Nemanja Stankovich (EJU Scientific Commission, University of Niš / Serbia) |
| Men as Allies: Using our Power for Gender Equality in Judo | Roger Svedberg (EJU Human Right Commission & Leader of The motor network from Swedish Judo Federation) |
| Mental Health as a Basis for Performance | Veronika Jakl (IJF Mental Health Officer, EJU Safeguarding Referent, Judo Austria) |
Registration
Fee: Free
Registration link: Virtual Conference
Author: EJU Media