Spotlight on Innovation, Sport and Human Rights – Driving Responsible Sport Through Action

How can sport navigate complex challenges while staying true to its values?

This question brought over 30 representatives from international federations, sport organisations and partners together at the Maison du Sport International (MSI) for a workshop on responsible sport, hosted by ThinkSport in partnership with the Centre for Sport and Human Rights.

Responsible Sport in a Changing World

With growing expectations around athlete welfare, event integrity, freedom of expression and social impact, sport today operates in a more complex environment than ever. The workshop explored how a human rights–based approach can provide a practical framework for decision-making and risk management across sport operations and events.

Expert contributors Magali Martowicz, Head of Human Rights at the IOC , Vincent Gaillard Executive Director and Secretary General at World Rowing, Alex Higgins Senior Social Affairs Manager at UEFA and Guido Battaglia, Head of Partnerships & Institutional Affairs at the Centre for Sport and Human Rights shared perspectives on why sport organisations can no longer treat responsibility as an optional add-on. Instead, it must be embedded as a strategic mindset—one that strengthens trust, credibility and long-term sustainability.

“When we talk about collaboration, it’s really about stepping outside our own bubbles to create change and reach further together,” said Magali Martowicz during the discussion. “The further down we go, across different levels like institutions or networks, the fewer resources we often have. That’s why joining forces is essential if we want to have a greater impact.”

From Insight to Action

Participants then moved into an interactive scenario exercise, where they worked in groups to analyse potential human rights risks linked to sporting events: examining who might be impacted, what could go wrong and how organisations can anticipate and prevent harm.

Discussions highlighted common challenges related to discrimination, athlete and fan safety, media pressure, safeguarding and geopolitical sensitivity. Solutions focused on practical steps such as risk mapping, stronger due diligence processes, responsible communication and staff training.

The workshop concluded with an introduction to tools and guidance from the Centre for Sport and Human Rights, supporting organisations in implementing responsible sport strategies with clear processes and accountability.

ThinkSport extends a heartfelt thank you to all contributors and members who took part in this workshop and continue to champion a sport ecosystem that protects people, respects values and drives positive impact. A special shout-out to our partners at the Centre for Sport and Human Rights for their expertise, collaboration and support in co-designing and facilitating the session. In particular, we would like to thank Guido Battaglia (Head of Partnerships & Institutional Affairs) for his thoughtful contributions to the discussion, as well as Alison Biscoe (Head of Programme Development and Capacity Building) and Marie Porchet (Programmes and Partnerships Coordinator) for their energy and guidance throughout the workshop.

Keep an eye out for the launch of our 2026 Spotlight programme and join us as we continue exploring the future of sport together.

Interested in similar workshops or collaborations?
Contact us at info@thinksport.org to get involved.