Athlete Safeguarding in Indonesian Sport: Reconstructing Legal Protection against Sexual Harassment and Abuse in National Sports Organizations

Abstract

Athlete safeguarding has become an increasingly important dimension of sports governance, particularly in relation to sexual harassment, psychological abuse, exploitation, and other forms of misconduct within sporting environments. Athletes may face heightened vulnerability because of hierarchical relationships between athletes, coaches, officials, clubs, and sports federations. This article examines the adequacy of legal protection against sexual harassment and abuse within Indonesian sports organizations. Using a normative juridical approach, the study analyzes Indonesian legislation concerning sports governance, sexual violence, employment, child protection, and human rights, alongside international safeguarding principles. The study identifies a regulatory fragmentation in which responsibilities for preventing, reporting, investigating, and remedying abuse may be distributed across multiple institutions without a sufficiently integrated safeguarding mechanism. Internal disciplinary procedures may also create conflicts of interest when allegations concern individuals holding institutional authority. This article proposes a rights-based safeguarding framework emphasizing independent reporting mechanisms, mandatory institutional duties of prevention, victim-centered investigations, confidentiality, protection against retaliation, and effective remedies. The framework further recognizes the heightened protection required for minors and athletes in dependent contractual relationships. Strengthening safeguarding regulation is essential to transform Indonesian sport into an environment that protects athlete dignity, safety, and fundamental rights while ensuring institutional accountability.