WBSC Integrity Unit participates in Seminar on Mobilising Against Trafficking, Exploitation, and Modern Slavery

The World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Integrity Unit recently
participated in a key seminar focused on combating trafficking, exploitation and modern slavery at the United Nations Office in Geneva.

The series of webinars is organised by the Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to monitor and combat trafficking in persons, in collaboration with the Collège Universitaire Henry-Dunant and Sister Mirjam Beike, RGS, the UN Representative in Geneva for the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd.

Head of the WBSC Integrity Unit Amy Park was one of the speakers and highlighted the alarming trend of agencies luring young players with promises of scholarships and professional sports coaching, only to exploit them once they secure professional contracts.

She emphasised the critical role of sports organisations like the WBSC in raising awareness and educating young and vulnerable athletes about these dangers.

"There is a lot of work to be done by the WBSC to find solutions, especially to help and support those in the process of being trafficked and a solution to the problem of athletes falling into the hands of traffickers," Park said. "This requires the cooperation of many organisations, not only at the policy making level but also in the education of young athletes and parents. This is an important part of promoting the sport of baseball/softball and to keep our sport thriving among the younger generations across many countries."

The WBSC Integrity Unit has made significant strides in this area, providing necessary resources and education to Continental Associations, National Federations, athletes and officials. Additionally, the WBSC has dedicated Safeguarding Officers, who also provide on-site support at its competitions.