UNO SGUARDO SUL CAMPO - INSIEME AL PRESIDENTE FRATTINI (di Fabiana Raciti)

UNO SGUARDO SUL CAMPO - INSIEME AL PRESIDENTE FRATTINI (di Fabiana Raciti*)


D. Presidente, cos’è SIGA e quali sono gli obiettivi che si è prefissata? 

R. SIGA è un’Alleanza globale che comprende circa 120 componenti, il cui obiettivo è promuovere una buona governance, fissando a livello sovranazionale dei validi criteri guida per l’integrità dello sport in tutte le sue forme. Abbiamo costituito e varato il “SIGA Independent Rating and Verification System (SIRVS)”, un meccanismo che valuta l’organizzazione e le modalità di lavoro delle singole strutture e che, assegnando il “bollino di legalità”, assicura che le loro pratiche siano conformi ai valori sportivi, nonché alle regole di legalità internazionale. Inoltre, stiamo lavorando ad un modello di regole di condotta che tutti possano sottoscrivere liberamente, nell’organizzare grandi eventi, e lo facciamo pensando alla FIFA World Cup 22 o alla Ryder Cup 2023. Avremo questi eventi per pensare a delle regole di condotta efficaci. Magari un domani potrebbero essere tradotte in un principio guida e diventare vincolanti. 

D. Considerando le numerose vicende connesse allo sport, a Suo avviso, quali sono le maggiori pratiche che mettono a rischio l’integrità dello sport? 

R. Ma guardi, ci sono fenomeni che riguardano molti ambiti dello sport. Il primo fra tutti è quello della diffusione transnazionale delle scommesse illecite, successivamente il meccanismo di tracciatura del denaro che ruota intorno allo sport. La quantità è enorme e la tracciatura è fondamentale. Poi abbiamo un terzo filone, un settore di cui mi occupo da giudice, ed è la criminalità organizzata. Sono tanti i casi in cui le organizzazioni mafiose si propongono di sponsorizzare piccole iniziative sportive di quartiere, con il solo scopo di ripulire la loro immagine agli occhi dell’opinione pubblica locale, ma quella è solo contaminazione mafiosa... E poi c’è la classica violenza, che rappresenta il quarto filone. La violenza negli stadi o intorno ad essi. 

D. Non a caso Presidente, si rivolge proprio ad una persona ferita dal mondo del calcio e, recentemente, la rivista Humanities & Social Sciences Communications ha pubblicato una ricerca secondo cui la sportività aumenta quando gli spalti sono vuoti. 

R. Da giudice sportivo e da Presidente del Collegio di Garanzia dello Sport, ho preso decisioni abbastanza rigorose, quando si vedono tifoserie che inneggiano alla violenza, si chiude lo stadio. Purtroppo, la verità è che lo sport è sempre di più oggetto di attenzione di criminali, organizzati e non. E’ diventato un settore attrattivo, in cui gira molto denaro e ci sono tante opportunità. 

D. Guardando ai maggiori canali social, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram ma anche Clubhouse e LinkedIn, quanto ritiene influente la comunicazione per salvaguardare i valori dello sport? 

R. La comunicazione è fondamentale e penetrare nel mondo dei social è assolutamente essenziale. Ma ho notato che vanno sulle reti principalmente le notizie negative e/o le denunce, e quasi mai le positive. Come Presidente di SIGA ho proposto l’applicazione, al mondo dello sport, di una regola importantissima che abbiamo nel codice antimafia, secondo cui il denaro e gli asset confiscati ai mafiosi vengono reinvestiti per finalità sociale. Anche nello sport si confisca denaro e sono tanti i beni sottratti ai criminali, così, magari una quota di questi potrebbe essere destinata alla realizzazione di un campo di calcio, da tennis o un piccolo centro sportivo, in un quartiere degradato della città. Di conseguenza, quello che era denaro sporco verrebbe utilizzato per finalità pulite. 

D. Parlando di giovani, recentemente ho avuto il piacere di seguire in diretta lo YOUTH Forum 2021 organizzato da SIGA e so che l’operato dell’Alleanza sia principalmente rivolto ai giovani, futura classe dirigente. Avete mai pensato di collaborare con i giovanissimi delle scuole italiane, al fine di diffondere la cultura dello sport sano? 

 R. SIGA è un’organizzazione internazionale e quindi abbiamo difficoltà a coinvolgere le singole scuole di ogni Paese. La scelta di dedicare un forum ai giovani nasce dalla volontà di far emergere casi in cui proprio i giovani siano vittime di pratiche di illegalità. Si pensi alle molestie all’interno delle squadre, oppure ai giovani che vengono acquistati direttamente dalle famiglie in Paesi poveri come “promettenti giocatori”, e poi, dietro l’apparenza, rimangono immigrati clandestini fra le vie delle nostre città. Due principi devono essere instillati nelle giovani generazioni, protezione ed educazione alla legalità. Spiegando loro che quando si gioca in campo, non ci deve essere mai imbroglio, né mai violenza… 

D. Purtroppo in Italia c’è ancora tanto da fare. Io stessa ho notato difficoltà a diffondere il messaggio di non violenza nelle scuole: talvolta è proprio il genitore ad istigare il figlio. 

 R. Questa è la cosa più grave, dimenticare l’essenza dello sport nelle competizioni. Il genitore invece di dare il buon esempio, troppe volte lo spinge a compiere atti violenti. 

D. In conclusione del nostro incontro, vorrei parlare di come prevenire la violenza insieme alla Polizia di Stato. Avete mai pensato di collaborare con le Forze dell’Ordine, cercando di diffondere un messaggio di non violenza? 

R. In effetti lo facciamo già, SIGA ha sempre coinvolto nei Paesi con cui collaboriamo le autorità di law enforcement. Riteniamo che l’aspetto della prevenzione e della reazione nei casi di violenza debba necessariamente coinvolgere chi questo servizio lo fa per mestiere. La Polizia di Stato è molto impegnata su queste vicende e per tali motivi cercheremo di fondare dei programmi di cooperazione gemellata con le autorità di polizia dei singoli Paesi, ai quali abbiamo già iniziato a chiedere quali siano le loro esperienze. Il Capo della polizia portoghese è venuto ad uno dei nostri incontri impegnandosi a mettere a disposizione un Report sul tema dello sport, chiedendo ai suoi omologhi delle altre forze europee di fare lo stesso.


*Fabiana Raciti, studentessa della SIOI, Master in Comunicazione e Lobbying nelle Relazioni Internazionali 2021





23.3.21 | Posted in , , , , , , , , | Continua »

SECURING SPORT 2020 Virtual Edition: Speaker Franco Frattini - The Integrity of Sport: Achievements, Existing Gaps and Future Perspectives

 SECURING SPORT 2020 Virtual Edition

‘Building Resilience in an Ever-Changing World’


The ICSS will convene its flagship conference Securing Sport from 01 – 04 December 2020, in a virtual event format under the theme ‘Building Resilience in an Ever-Changing World’. Securing Sport is an international and multisectoral conference, which was conceived to serve as a platform for discussions about the changes, challenges and threats to sport and the opportunities sport can generate in the socio-economic context. The latest editions were hosted by the Lancaster House in London and the Council on Foreign Relations in New York.

By bringing together all ICSS partners and allies, Securing Sport gives inspiration to the ICSS regarding the general work objectives and future endeavors in safeguarding sport as a common good for humankind.

As an open-ended platform, Securing Sport unites international and national decision-makers, eminent experts and gives a voice to stakeholders across sectors with the aim of inspiring collective action and identifying solutions to enhance the safety, security and integrity of sport, while protecting its societal values.

In a series of digital events – Policy Dialogues, Expert Debates and Youth Interventions hosted by the ICSS initiative Save the Dream – set against a virtual stage backdrop, the panels will analyse some of the most pressing current challenges facing the world of sport and address global challenges, international approaches and ways to further strengthen multisectoral cooperation.


More info: http://theicss.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Securing-Sport-2020-Virtual-Edition-web-agenda_2.pdf



1.12.20 | Posted in , , , , , , | Continua »

Papa Francesco: 'I valori dello sport per rilanciare lo sviluppo"


Papa Francesco: 'I valori dello sport per rilanciare lo sviluppo" 
Il n.1 del Coni Malagò scrive per l'Ansa: "Orgogliosi delle sue parole"


Nello strano Angelus della domenica delle Palme, senza pellegrini, nella Basilica di San Pietro vuota causa coronavirus Papa Francesco ha pregato per lo sport, chiedendone il rilancio. Il Pontefice lo ha fatto alla vigilia della giornata mondiale che si celebra il 6 aprile, appunto, e il suo messaggio irrompe nel silenzio di una domenica, l'ennesima ormai, senza calcio, senza alcuno sport giocato.

"Lunedì 6 aprile ricorre la Giornata Mondiale dello Sport per la Pace e lo Sviluppo, indetta dalle Nazioni Unite" ha esordito il Pontefice. "In questo periodo, tante manifestazioni sono sospese, ma vengono fuori i frutti migliori dello sport - le parole di Francesco -: la resistenza, lo spirito di squadra, la fratellanza, il dare il meglio di sé. Dunque, rilanciamo lo sport per la pace e lo sviluppo".

Un messaggio di grande speranza che guarda al futuro anche attraverso la ripresa delle attività sportive, per le quali il Papa ha sempre mostrato grande ammirazione e sostegno. Le sue parole sono state infatti accolte con grande soddisfazione dal presidente del Coni, Giovanni Malagò che ha scritto per l'ANSA il suo pensiero. "Le parole di Papa Francesco riempiono di orgoglio e di gioia lo sport e gli sportivi tutti - scrive Malagò -. Per il nostro mondo sono un segnale di grande vicinanza che, per la verità, Sua Santità non ci ha mai fatto mancare, ma che oggi, in un periodo così difficile per tutti noi, risuona con maggiore eclatanza e rispettosa gratitudine".

La giornata mondiale si festeggia il 6 aprile perché nella stessa data nel 1986 "presero il via ad Atene i primi Giochi Olimpici dell'era moderna. Il 6 aprile è la nostra festa" ricorda Malagò. E le parole del Pontefice "rappresentano una simbolica benedizione verso la grande famiglia dello sport che anche da questo messaggio dovrà trarre quella forza d'animo necessaria ad affrontare e a superare le difficoltà di questi giorni attraverso appunto quelle caratteristiche che sono insite nella natura dei veri sportivi: resistenza, spirito di squadra e fratellanza. Soltanto se saremo uniti, potremo vincere questa battaglia. Grazie Papa Francesco per questo appello che il mondo dello sport non potrà esimersi dall'osservare con scrupolosa dedizione".

Fonte Ansa

6.4.20 | Posted in , , , , , , , , | Continua »

SIGA Inter-regional Summit, Doha 16th-17th September, 2019

SIGA Inter-regional Summit, Doha 16th-17th September, 2019
“Sport Integrity – The Power of Collective Action in the Middle East, Asia and Africa’.


The Chairman of the Sports Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) Franco Frattini took part in the SIGA Inter-regional Summit, hosted in Doha on September 16th and 17th at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, on the topic “Sport Integrity – The Power of Collective Action in the Middle East, Asia and Africa’. Organized by SIGA, the summit is co-hosted by the International Centre for Sport Security (ICSS) and Qatar Airways, under the patronage of the Minister of Culture and Sports, H. E. Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali.

The conference is the occasion to discuss a number of important topics with experts and specialists in sport integrity from the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The meeting also aims to highlight the gravity of corruption in sport in the region and to develop solutions by encouraging countries to adopt SIGA’s international standard legislation.


Franco Frattini, Chairman of SIGA, said: “We are delighted to hold our second Inter-Regional Summit in Doha and want to thank our partners for their support. The need for sport integrity is greater than ever and SIGA works relentlessly to deliver this fundamental mission. We call upon all countries, all governments and the entire sports industry to join us in this quest and support our efforts. By sports organizations adopting our Universal Standards we will ensure that the game is clean from undue influence and corruption.” SIGA, the world’s largest coalition in the field of sports governance and integrity, presents the Inter-Regional Summit as a neutral and action-oriented platform to bring together thought leaders and international experts from the world of sport, governments, global business and civil society to engage in an open dialogue on the most pressing issues surrounding the integrity of sport.

Source: Ambasciata d'Italia a Doha 


Speech delivered by Franco Frattini



Ladies and Excellences, 

I thank you all for coming from all over the world to this extraordinary regional forum in Doha. We are happy that the first, comprehensive SIGA regional forum in the Middle East on sport integrity is held, with the invaluable support of the government and our sponsors in a Country that is having the responsibility to organize – I’m sure very well – important sport world event, starting by athletics in few days. 

My warm thanks go first to Emanuel Medeiros, our CEO, and his staff, Katie first, for the tireless commitment to make this forum a great reality! I also warmly thank my vice – chairman and friend Mohammed, also deeply committed for a big event in his country, this Country. 

Being myself a judge dealing with anti-mafia cases at the Italian Supreme Court, I know well how much all the components of our societies run the risk to be permeated by criminality in its various forms, from the mafia’s contamination of economic sectors, to the penetration of organized crime and corruption in the field of sports. The universal values of Olympic Charter are first of all a very powerful instrument to educate the younger generations, towards fair and loyal competitions, rigorous training rules, and sacrifices to get every day better results; the pollution, the denegation of those values, instead, tends to lead the youth towards unfair rules to prevail anyway, or to get “easy money”. 

Many supranational Institutions focus now on this topic, from OECD, to the Council of Europe, to UNODOC, and, recently, even the G7, during 2017 German Presidency. Fighting together for sport integrity, rule of law, and international binding rules is and should be a moral, and then an institutional obligation, for States, sport governing bodies, law enforcement authorities, and private sector. In the world of today, organised crime, in search for more profit in a variety of sectors, diversifies its actions, from corruption, to tax crimes, to document forgery with the aim of maximizing economic profits, influencing the Public Administration, laundering illicit money and finally controlling entire territories. 

We have experience, also in Italy, and this is my judicial job, of infiltrations trough various, often converging instruments: from cash – intensive business, to figureheads, to secrecy jurisdictions. The common denominator is the promotion of cultural acceptance of corruption. Sport is now a new risk area; organized crime is unfortunately very attracted by huge flows of money around sports (first, professional football sector), by the visibility of sport events and even more, for the mafias, by the possibility of cleaning criminal reputation through creating consensus rooted in a given territory that they want to control. Failing cannot be an option! 

We call for a big, world alliance of rule of law against those that try to destroy our hopes! Many hidden forces are against us, working for the “Kingdom of the profit” at the expenses of our future and the one of the younger generations! I learned also in my judicial experience of President of the Italian High Court for Sport Justice – this is my second judicial hat – that the way to eradicate the cancer of corruption, spreading illegality, match fixing, exploitation of the youth, is to address and cut the financial routes of crime, that lead to enrich a few against the rest of our societies. From the tracking of sport financial transactions, to the attention needed to the management of sports clubs and facilities, to the ticketing activities, to a deep reform of the main sport governing bodies, to a fair public/private cooperation between decision makers. 

This is the way. 

It shouldn’t be just a dream, a new world where any euro or dollar confiscated to sport criminals under binding rules applicable worldwide is re-invested for new sport initiatives or infrastructures, to the good of the whole societies. Money earned illegally should be reversed to the good of honest people! SIGA aims at spreading worldwide common verification criteria for sports institutions and private sectors involved, to show a kind of “evidence of immunity” from criminal infiltrations and risks related. SIGA aims at promoting global binding rules on sports integrity. Those who like the status quo repeat that “sport should be autonomous and free from any imposition. But exactly because this is the essence of sport, I think that to be free and autonomous, all the sport activities must be first “crime – free!” 

I don’t want to see the current and the new generations live in a crime – dominated world of sport. It is within the reach, if we all believe in it. 

This is SIGA mission, this is why your support and commitment is the key to succeed! 

Thank you.


::::::::::

White Paper on sport integrity in January, says SIGA Chairman 




Praising Qatar’s efforts in promoting sports and sport integrity in the region, Chairman of the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA), Franco Frattini, said that the Alliance will present in Rome a White Paper on sport integrity in January next year. 

“The next goal of the SIGA is to present proposals which can become one day binding rules at international level, applicable to all States in the international community. It is quite an ambitious goal,” said Frattini in an interview with The Peninsula. 

Frattini was in Doha to participate in the Inter-regional Sport Integrity Summit on the topic ‘Sport Integrity – The Power of Collective Action in the Middle East, Asia and Africa’. 

He said that the SIGA is an international alliance which has got together sports institutions, States, public institutions and private sector. “Our idea is to bring together all those aimed at improving integrity in the field of sport, preventing illegality and fighting all kinds of criminal activities related to sport.” 

Frattini served twice as Italian Foreign Minister (2002-2004 and 2008-2011), and as Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Justice, Freedom and Security (2004-2008). Frattini said that the first regional summit in Doha was an important step towards achieving SIGA’s goal of adopting universal standards. 

“The first Summit was the American SIGA Summit, which was held in March this year. Doha’s Summit is the first inter-regional summit in the Middle East.” He added that the SIGA would prepare a formal proposal in order to have universal standards to be accepted and applicable in States for sports governance. 

“Our aim is to finalize within few months a White Paper on sports integrity.” He said that suggestions for the White Paper would be collected from all the stakeholders such as States, sports federations, private and public institutions, to shape them into a final proposal. 

Frattini said that the SIGA White Paper would most likely be formally presented in Rome next year sometimes in January. He said that a ‘Common Verification System’ was already in place and very well operational. “Some entities decided to subscribe or accepted these standards to be applicable.” 

Frattini — who also served as President of the De Gasperi Foundation from 2011 to 2013—said that another extremely important idea of the SIGA was to propose to States that money confiscated from criminal organizations be reverted to good initiatives benefiting young generations, such as the construction of stadiums, courts, camps. 

“Every dollar confiscated should be re-used to implement these initiatives in the same country where it was confiscated,” he noted. He said that sports has become a ‘sector at risk’ because of huge flows of money. “Match fixing, briberies, money laundering through sports activities and criminal organisations are putting sport at risk”. Another horrible crime is the exploitation of young athletes by unscrupulous clubs. “Many young athletes from Asia, Africa and Latin America are bought by unscrupulous clubs which bring them to Europe and later they treat them as trash,” he said, adding that a strong fight against this phenomenon is needed. 

On SIGA’s achievement since it was founded in 2015, he expressed his complete satisfaction. “A number of new entities are asking to become full member of the SIGA. We have at present 115 members including States, sports federations, private and public institutions.” He said that the SIGA had signed memorandums of cooperation with many UN agencies and recently signed an agreement with US Sports Council. 

“The Summit in Doha is paving the way for expanding SIGA in the Middle East.” Talking about other SIGA projects in the pipeline, Frattini said that the SIGA was set to launch the initiative ‘Sports Integrity and Diplomacy’ to attract ambassadors for the adoption of common binding rules worldwide. He said that this initiative would be launched by the beginning of next year. To a question, he said that the role of all entities is important for sport integrity. 

“NGOs work on ground and report illegalities. Sports bodies can prevent the spread of corruption within the organizations. States make laws.” He said that the SIGA would give soon a presentation at the European Parliament. “I am also meeting soon the Commissioner for Sport in the European Commission with the aim to develop common rules in the European Union.” 

 Frattini said that he had high expectations with the summit in Qatar because it was being held for the first time in the Middle East. “It is a confirmation of the commitment to organize clean sports events in this part of the world.” 

 He said that Qatar had the capacity to organize clean sports events with no concerns and suspects. “Athletics Championship is set to start and then Qatar will host FIFA World Cup in 2022.” Regarding the preparation of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, he said: “They are simply amazing. I was the Foreign Minister of Italy when Qatar won the vote for hosting the 2022 World Cup. All preparations are very well-advanced. It will be a very successful sport event.” He also praised Qatar for its efforts to become a sports hub in the region. “We need countries which can become sports hubs in the region, which is currently critical for security and stability. 

Therefore the focus of the countries should be on sports instead of wars. It is better for everybody.” He said that Qatar had undertaken many important initiatives for the wellbeing of its people. “Likewise, the Italian Government and the Embassy of Italy in Doha are extremely committed to promote wellbeing by raising awareness – especially among young generations – on the importance of sport and sport values to conduct a healthy lifestyle. 

This shared approach could lead Italy and Qatar to work together to devote territories to sport and well-being by creating districts renowned for wellness expertise and high quality of life. This project could make of Doha the first example of ‘Wellness City’, contributing to channelize and guide people through a wellness path. Sport is a life habit not only a competition.”



PRESS RELEASE

The Peninsula - Summit praises Qatar’s sports integrity and governance 
September 18 2019: https://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/18/09/2019/Summit-praises-Qatar%E2%80%99s-sports-integrity-and-governance 

Gulf Times - ‘Qatar is serious on campaign vs corruption in sports’, says SIGA chairman 
September 17 2019: https://www.gulf-times.com/story/641953/Qatar-is-serious-on-campaign-vs-corruption-in-spor 

Gulf Times - PM meets SIGA chairman 
September 17 2019: https://www.gulf-times.com/story/641942/PM-meets-SIGA-chairman 

Gulf Times - Minister meets SIGA officials 
September 17 2019: https://www.gulf-times.com/story/641889/Minister-meets-SIGA-officials 

The Peninsula - Sports summit aims to promote transparency, integrity 
September 17 2019: https://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/17/09/2019/Sports-summit-aims-to-promote-transparency,-integrity 

Gulf Times - ‘Brand reputation and integrity vital for making sponsorship decisions’ 
September 17 2019: https://www.gulf-times.com/story/641955/Brand-reputation-and-integrity-vital-for-making-sp 

Gulf Times - QSL signs co-operation agreement with SIGA
September 17 2019: https://www.gulf-times.com/story/641956/QSL-signs-co-operation-agreement-with-SIGA

19.9.19 | Posted in , , , , , , , | Continua »

Frattini at Sports Integrity Forum: “Let’s unite against corruption in sport”

SIGA SPORT INTEGRITY FORUM V
New York City

NEW YORK, MARCH 26 – “Let’s unite to fight against corruption in sport. Today we call for a global alliance and a rule of law to eradicate the cancer of corruption in sport and prevent those that want to destroy our hopes”.

The former Italian Foreign Minister and Chairman of the international coalition Sport Integrity Global Alliance addressed the Sports Integrity Forum in New York: “Being a judge dealing with anti corruption mafia cases, I know all too well the contamination of organized crime and corruption”, Frattini said.

Opening the meeting, the former Italian FM and VP/Commissioner of EU launched an appeal to take advantage of the full potential of sport “as a vehicle of values, youth inclusion, promotion of integrity and good governance”. The 5th edition of the Sports Integrity Forum was held at the prestigious New York Athletic Club.

The Sport Integrity Global Alliance is an independent and neutral coalition of more than 70 international multi-industry members, that three years ago announced a draft set of universal standards. SIGA has now launched a comprehensive consultation process throughout the world of sport. (@OnuItalia)

More info: http://siga-sport.net/siga-sport-integrity-forum-v-new-york-city/




27.3.19 | Posted in , , , , , , , , | Continua »

SIGA SPORT INTEGRITY FORUM DRAWS HIGH-PROFILE SUPPORT



His Holiness Pope Francis and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin deliver SIGA endorsement 

31 January 2018; Rome, Italy: SIGA received messages of support from a number of high-profile and prominent leaders including His Holiness Pope Francis and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin at the third edition of the Sport Integrity Forum. 

The Forum built on the success of the previous editions and brought together an even greater array of high profile and prominent speakers from sport, government, international and regional organisations, civil society and the commercial and professional service sectors. 

The purpose of the Forum was to identify solutions and determine the most effective reforms required to address the grave problems facing the international sports movement. Throughout the Forum it was acknowledged that while serious problems exist, progress is being made and by working together solutions can be found. 

This message was echoed by His Holiness Pope Francis who delivered a message to the delegates via Monsignor Melchor Sánchez de Toca y Alameda, Undersecretary of the Pontifical Council for Culture, and “wished that such an important event could be an occasion for deep thought about sport and its high values as a means of fair competition to build a fairer society.” 

UEFA President Čeferin, who delivered a keynote address by video, also outlined the positive reforms UEFA has made to protect the integrity of European football and concluded that “collectively we must seek to find solutions instead of castigating inaction that perpetuates the problem. We count on all you.” 

Fellow keynote speaker, José Manuel Barroso, the former Prime Minister of Portugal and President of the European Commission and current non-executive Chairman of Goldman Sachs reinforced the need for collaboration as he stated “I urge you all to hold yourselves to the highest standards of integrity. I urge you all to be part of SIGA’s effort to change the sports industry for the better.” 

Speaking following the Sport Integrity Forum Chairman Franco Frattini said: “Sport has the power to bring people closer together, reduce tension and can help diplomacy take the place of war and conflict. This is the message we launched in Rome. We intend to fight for the independence and neutrality of sport. We want to ensure that only the spirt and purity of sports positive values prevail. Our SIGA coalition is only as strong as our members and supporters and as we saw at the Sport Integrity Forum we have the support of governments, sports institutions, individuals, companies and free citizens. All those who recognise in themselves the message we sent out from Rome, that by working together and setting aside differences sport can repair its reputation and regain people’s trust.”


SIGA Coordinator Emanuel Macedo de Medeiros added: “We understand the enormity of the challenges ahead but we feel very confident about the future. We are encouraged by the strong words of support we have heard today. We believe the tide is changing; that a new era is being ushered in. We are coming together with one voice and working towards one vision. But in today’s society what matters are not words but actions. All of us will be judged by how we respond to the current challenges which is why it was important to determine conclusions which will help us usher in a new era for sport.” 

During the Forum, SIGA Champion and Special Olympic Athlete Gilmour Borg and regular contributor to SIGA’s Millennials Matter initiative, Jade Beason, presented the SIGA Youth Manifesto. The two millennials expressed their generation’s desire to contribute to protecting the integrity of sport but also called on sports organisation to uphold the highest standards of integrity through SIGA’s Universal Standards. 

The Forum, hosted in the National Olympic Committee of Italy (CONI) headquarters in Rome, was opened by CONI President Giovanni Malagó; President of Anti-Corruption National Authority of Italy, Raffaele Cantone; SIGA Chairman Franco Frattini; and Minister of Sport of Italy, Luca Lotti

The Forum included lively, interactive and highly-informed panel discussions featuring a variety of industry experts. The panels were: Inter-Governmental Round-Table Kicking Corruption out of Sport Athletes: Champions and Role Models Sponsorship, Brand Value and Reputation Club Ownership, Players’ Transfers, Financial Flows and Tax Havens Sports Betting Integrity Protecting Minors in Sport 

The Forum was closed by SIGA Nominations Committee Lord John Stevens and SIGA Chairman Frattini.

6.2.18 | Posted in , , , , , , , , , , | Continua »

SIGA - Sport Integrity Forum: Rome 30-31 January, 2018

The 3rd Edition of the SIGA Sport Integrity Forum will take place on 30 January 2018 in Rome. 
CONI (National Olympic Committee of Italy), Piazza Lauro De Bosis, 15, 00135 Rome, Italy Tuesday, January 30, 2018 from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM






The SIGA Sport Integrity Forum gathers experts from across sport, government, international organisations, global businesses and civil society to address key issues and challenges facing modern sport. 

The Forum will include the following panel sessions: 



Kicking corruption out of sport.
How can we avoid a legacy of distrust, dishonesty and fraud?
Corruption, unfortunately, is engrained in modern day society. It is not a problem exclusive to sport; rather it pervades all industries, undermining the rule of law and ultimately, our fundamental ethical values as human beings. In many ways, sport is a reflection of society, and the corruption we hear about every day is synonymous with problems faced by leaders across all industries. After decades of poor governance, lax attitudes by sports governing bodies, governments and regulators, sport’s reputation has reached its lowest ebb. The need for global leadership and enhanced international cooperation is greater than ever before. What is actually being done to eradicate corruption from sport? What new revelations will be brought to light by law enforcement, court trials and the media? And what legacy will we leave for future generations if this issue is not tackled head on? Our expert panellists will address these questions and share their insights on how to bring about the much needed governance reforms and SIGA’s role in ushering sport into a new era. 

Sponsorship, Brand Value & Reputation
Why does integrity matter to these stakeholders and why do they have a responsibility to get involved? 
For the last three decades, the sports industry has continually defied economic cycles. Even in the face of a global recession, the industry has grown exponentially, driving commercial success for everyone involved. But, with sports integrity being increasingly tainted by stories of corruption and fraud, is it only a matter of time beforethis period of prosperity eventually comes to a halt? With this in mind, how can sponsors and broadcasters safeguard their financial investments in sport and protect their own reputation? What role are they willing to play and can they play in being part of the solution? This panel will address these pressing issues and put the spotlight on stakeholders that invest not just money, but also their reputation. 

Club ownership, players’ transfers, financial flows and tax havens.
Is the current financial integrity model fit for purpose? 
As the value of the multi-billion-pound sports industry continues to grow year-on-year, the need for enhanced financial integrity and transparency has never been greater. Whilst some strides have been made in the last decade, the financial side of sport is becoming increasingly sophisticated and complex. Challenges are mounting. How are sports governing bodies, governments and economic regulators responding to the fast-changing global financial landscape? Are the existing regulations on club ownership fit for purpose? What impact have the Panama Papers, the Paradisee Papers and other recent scandals had on the way offshore investment funds are set up and operate? What sort of financial supervision, due diligence and oversight are in place, if any, at country and international level, to safeguard sport from transnational money laundering, tax evasion and criminal infiltration? Will the recent EU blacklist on tax heavens change the current state of affairs? SIGA can assist the sporting industry to tackle the most critical challenges and implement the much-needed reforms, and our expert panellists will debate the best way to go about this. 

Sports Betting Integrity
Is enough being done to prevent match-fixing and sport betting fraud? 
In an increasingly globalised and rapidly evolving technological world, where new generations are shaping the way sports content is consumed, the sports betting industry is becoming one of the world’s most lucrative industries in its own right. In light of this, the fight against illegal betting, match-fixing, sports betting fraud and transnational organised crime must be at the top of the agenda. However, the reality is disturbing. Whilst significant strides have been made in recent years and certain jurisdictions are now beginning to address how to best regulate the sports betting industry, there is still a lot to be done. Our expert panellists will tell us how serious the situation is and how sports organisers, international organisations, governments, law enforcement bodies and the sports betting industry can help protect one of the world’s fastest moving industries. 

Protecting Minors in Sport. 
Developing a safe pathway to the top of professional sport
Recent scandals connected to child abuse in various countries, as well as to smuggling and trafficking of young athletes in several sports are triggering heated discussions. Professional sport is one of the most attractive career paths to young people, but there are risks and challenges that cannot be neglected. As the market value of young athletes continues to rise and they become increasingly vulnerable to the lure of the bright lights, a number of key questions arise. How can the best interests of young athletes be protected? What is the role of the sports clubs and training academies? Are the current rules governing the international transfers of minors fit for purpose or are they in need of change? Given the increasing competition in this space, is there room for consensus amongst the key stakeholders? How can a set of universal standards covering all stages of the youth development process benefit young athletes, parents and training clubs? These are some of the sensitive subjects that our expert panellists will discuss, with a view to formulating concrete actions that will enhance the development and protection of children and young people in sport.

More info: 

15.1.18 | Posted in , , , , , , , , , , , , | Continua »

Countries express support to SIGA at historic United Nations Special Session


29 November 2017 Geneva: The Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) gathered over 30 UN-recognised countries yesterday in a historic Special Session at the Palais des Nations, home of the United Nations Office at Geneva. 

During the Session, all Ambassadors and senior diplomats that took to the floor endorsed the work of SIGA and expressed explicit support for SIGA’s mission to promote good governance and help safeguard the integrity of sport. 

The wide-range of diplomatic representatives were also joined by senior UN officials and some of SIGA’s industry-leading expert members. The Session addressed the positive role that sport can play in modern society and the action that needs to be taken to enhance its governance and strengthen its integrity. 

The Session was co-hosted by HE Ambassador Maurizio Enrico Serra, Permanent Representative and Ambassador of Italy to the International Organisations in Geneva, and David Chikvaidze, the Chef de Cabinet of the Director General of the UN Office in Geneva. SIGA Chairman Franco Frattini chaired proceedings, which are expected to be the beginning of a great collaborative relationship between SIGA, the UN and UN members. 

Speaking after the session, SIGA Chairman Franco Frattini said: “It was a huge honour to represent SIGA at the United Nations, an organisation built on the principles of ethics and integrity. To hold a Session with over 30 countries, supported by a number of SIGA members, and to have such positive and encouraging discussions, is a significant step. For SIGA to receive overwhelming support from senior officials from the diplomatic community, not to mention the UN itself, is an outstanding achievement and reflects the universal importance of our cause. The prospects ahead are very positive and encouraging.” 

SIGA Coordinator Emanuel Macedo de Medeiros echoed the same sentiments and added: “The positive steps taken here must now be used as a springboard. We must use the momentum of the discussions we had, the expert opinions we heard and the overwhelming endorsement we received from the diplomatic community, to continue building towards our goal of a more transparent and trusted sporting landscape. At the end of January, SIGA will host its third Sport Integrity Forum in Rome. This is a great opportunity to hear from the same voices we heard today, as well as many more, as we continue to drive a collective effort to a sports industry we can fully trust and love once again.” 

During his intervention at the Session, David Chikvaidze, the Chef de Cabinet of the Director General of the UN Office in Geneva, said: “Sports owe their universal appeal to the values they embody: equality, justice, cooperation, competition and tolerance. However, sport’s power to shape and sustain our values is not a given. It depends entirely on whether the contest is fair. On whether fair play is respected. For sports, integrity is everything. That is why it is my great pleasure to welcome the Sport Integrity Global Alliance to the Palais des Nations on behalf of the Director General. “Your ‘Declaration of Core Principles on Sport Integrity’ embodies the fundamentals on which to build universal standards that can protect the values of fairness and integrity. I would also like to thank His Excellency Mr. Franco Frattini for his leadership on this issue. At this time of uncertainty, your efforts to promote public integrity cast ripples far beyond the world of sports. Your alliance is part of an effort to restore integrity, transparency and accountability in our communities.”




30.11.17 | Posted in , , , , , , , , , , , | Continua »

Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) Chairman Franco Frattini calls for a collective effort against corruption in sport

Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) Chairman Franco Frattini: “SIGA is ready and willing to work with the IOC to provide a better future for sport” 

Italian Magistrate and Former Vice-President of the European Commission calls for a collective effort against corruption in sport 

Over the past 40 years, I have held a number of high-level positions in diplomacy, government, integrity and sport, including working as a judge tackling the Mafia and organised crime in Italy. 

Throughout my career, I have learned the importance of drawing on individual expertise as part of a collective effort to achieve a common goal. 

Since joining the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) in July as the organisation’ s first independent Chair, I have had the chance to review the current state of affairs in the sports industry and envisage a strategy for the months and years ahead. 





I have also been able to meet with a number of stakeholders committed to conquering the toxic influence of those who give sports governing bodies a bad name, and share ideas of best practice for the path ahead. It is clear that there has never been a stronger need for reform. 

Each day, the public’ s confidence in the governance of sport is eroded further by the seemingly endless list of corruption stories that dominate news headlines around the world. 

This negativity taints the otherwise excellent day-to-day work of so many national international sports organisations and the vast majority of people who work in sport. IOC President Thomas Bach was right in many ways to say that organisations cannot be held accountable for the greed-fuelled actions of individuals. 

However, I believe that, with a more strategic and cohesive effort, SIGA can help the world’ s top sporting organisations create a new era in sport, where individuals are not given the opportunity to tarnish its collective reputation. 

Therefore, one of my primary aims is to reach out to the IOC, FIFA and other sports governing bodies, to see how, together, we can drive real change. 




We all share the same objective: we all want clean and fair sport that the public can have complete faith in. Like in sport, if we unite together behind a shared goal, rather than act in isolation from one another, we will have the greatest chance of success. 

In 2011, I was fortunate enough to be honoured with the Olympic Order by the IOC. The IOC is an organisation I respect and I have full confidence in that, under the leadership of President Bach, it will help lead the Olympic Movement in the fight against corruption. 

But I also believe that the IOC partnering with SIGA will be mutually beneficial and will ultimately benefit the sports industry. 

I recognise that there are hurdles we need to overcome, and realise the need for careful and considered diplomacy. 

I am convinced though that SIGA’ s expertise can provide real value. It is SIGA’ s mission to work with all stakeholders in the sports industry to re-instil trust and build a better future for the next generations. To this end, I hope to meet with President Bach and other leaders soon, and discuss ways in which we can work together and impose the change we all urgently want to see. 

SIGA is ready and willing to work with the IOC and all sports organisations to provide a better future for sport

Meanwhile, great progress is being made at SIGA as we continue to grow our membership and build the strong foundations needed to help the fight against corruption. We now have over 100 supporters committed to preserving the integrity of sport, safeguarding its positive values, and reducing and eliminating the harmful impact that corruption poses to sport and all sporting communities

SIGA continues to hold regular meetings with sport’ s most influential administrators, and learn more and more about how we can help influence change. 

The time for change is now. SIGA is ready to help the top international sporting organisations stop the corrupt few from ruining sport for the overwhelming majority of people around the world who take part in sport for all the right reasons. Honesty, integrity and transparency should always inspire and guide our commitment. Our ambition here is to represent these values not just through good practice but as a leader by good example. 

Franco Frattini


*****
Contact: For more information, please contact comms@siga-sport.com
Find us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SIGAlliance








20.11.17 | Posted in , , , , , , , , , , | Continua »

NEWS SPORT:SIGA pledges to unite stakeholders in fight against corruption and safeguard integrity in sports












SIGA pledges to unite stakeholders in fight against corruption and safeguard integrity in sports

Corruption continues to manifest its pernicious effects across our societies, tainting the institutions that many of us hold dear, and eroding integrity in too many sectors and industries. Sport is no exception.


The past few weeks has seen, again, the worst of sports’ dirty laundry been washed under the glare of the world’s media. Allegations of vote buying on an industrial scale have been matched by stories of international sports federations staging palace coups against their senior executives in an attempt to seek better governance. Sports fans around the world have been confronted with shocking headlines about corrupt administrators in the sport that they love, who now face potential jail sentences. 

Sport is in real danger of losing its credibility and trust by the very people it depends on – the public and the hundreds of millions of fans around the world. There has never been a greater need for sport to reform and better govern itself. The Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) feels that the time for action is now. Change is necessary, and SIGA is committed to unite stakeholders and drive a cohesive plan of action, through dynamic collective strategies and strong partnerships, to safeguard the integrity of sport in the immediate future. 


Confidence in organisations like the IOC and FIFA is crucial in overcoming the current good governance problems the sports industry is faced with. We are ready to work with the IOC, FIFA and indeed all sports organisations, with the support of our diverse set of members, to anchor a new trust in sport and drive forward effective reforms for the entire sports community. 

SIGA, which is an independent and neutral coalition, has grown considerably since becoming a legal entity in January this year. SIGA now has over 100 members and supporters committed to SIGA’s Universal Standards on Good Governance, Financial Integrity and Sports Betting Integrity, and, at the most recent SIGA Sport Integrity Forum in Lisbon, renowned Italian judge and former Vice President of the European Commission Franco Frattini was appointed as the independent SIGA Chair.


With members coming from both inside and outside the sports industry, and from across sectors and industries, around the globe, SIGA is strategically positioned to unite all major stakeholders and drive reform in areas of governance and integrity. SIGA understands the fundamental challenges facing the integrity of sport and is committed to promoting the highest standards of fair play in the administration of sport, particularly in the areas of good governance, financial integrity and sports betting integrity. 

SIGA will continue to work towards creating a new era in sport, moving collectively to implement, across the community of sport, SIGA’s Core Principles for Sport Integrity and the corresponding Universal Standards. These Universal Standards are designed to advance the highest level of good governance in sporting organisations, underpinned by the guiding concepts of democracy, transparency, accountability and stakeholder representation. 


Whilst the current corruption taint has put sport in a desperate position, it also provides an important opportunity to usher in a new era of upholding integrity in sport, where all organisations are united behind the same common goal. Change is on the horizon. 

SIGA would welcome the prospect of working with the leading authorities in sport and anti-corruption. Through the development of SIGA, we will preserve the integrity of sport, safeguard its positive values and vital role for the benefit of all citizens and future generations, and reduce and eliminate the harmful impact that corruption poses to sport, and all communities.. 

There is simply no place for corruption in sport. We will work together to restore the trust


Franco Frattini, Presidente SIGA (Sport Integrity Global Alliance) 


Contact: 

Visit our website at www.siga-sport.net 

Find us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SIGAlliance 

About SIGA 
SIGA is an independent and neutral coalition of more than 80 international multi-industry supporters. It is the only organisation to bring together sport, governments, academia, international organisations, sponsors, business, rights holders, NGOs and professional services companies, from every region in the world, around a common cause of fostering greater integrity throughout sport. 

SIGA’s members and supporters include Mastercard, Deloitte, the European Professional Football Leagues, Dow Jones, PwC, the World Bank, the International Centre for Sport Security, the Basel Institute on Good Governance, the Commonwealth Games Federation, the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees, Special Olympics, the Spanish Football League, the Portuguese Olympic Committee, eSports, World Taekwondo, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation and World Snooker.

2.10.17 | Posted in , , , , , , | Continua »

SIGA APPOINTS RENOWNED ITALIAN JUDGE FRANCO FRATTINI AS CHAIR

SIGA APPOINTS RENOWNED ITALIAN JUDGE FRANCO FRATTINI AS CHAIR
27 July 2017; Lisbon




The Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) General Assembly today unanimously approved the appointment of Franco Frattini, Justice and Chamber President to the Italian Supreme Administrative Court, as SIGA’s independent Chair. 

Frattini will serve as SIGA Chair for a four year term beginning with immediate effect. Highly respected for tackling Mafia and organised crime, the Italian Magistrate will bring more than 40 years of experience in diplomacy, government, integrity and sport to the role. 

He has served twice as Italian Foreign Minister as well as Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Justice, Freedom and Security. Frattini has been awarded the ‘Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic’ and ‘Commander of the Legion of Honour’ by the President of France. In 2011, he received the Olympic Order from the IOC in recognition of the significant role he and Italy played in campaigning for the IOC to be awarded Observer status at the United Nations. 

The SIGA Nominations Committee, chaired by Lord John Stevens and comprised of representatives from across SIGA’s diverse membership, recommended Frattini to the General Assembly following an extensive selection process. The Committee drew up a shortlist of candidates based on specific criteria including international standing in sport and sports integrity, and relevant experience. Frattini was recommended to the SIGA Council and approved before being presented to the General Assembly. 

One of his jobs as the Chair will be to work with the Nominations Committee to begin the process for identifying potential candidates to become SIGA CEO. 

Speaking on video to the General Assembly, Franco Frattini said: “I strongly support SIGA’s activities and I am very well aware of the high reputation SIGA enjoys around the world. I think it is very important to also be aware of the challenges sport is facing today. Sport has no borders and it speaks around the world in the same way to the young and to the old. This is why it is so important we all work together to share common principles, to share values, to defend and make integrity, respect of legality and respect of all the binding rules in the sports sector even stronger.” 

Speaking on the appointment, Lord John Stevens said: “We are delighted to appoint Franco Frattini as SIGA Chair. The SIGA Nominations Committee underwent an extensive selection process and we are in no doubt that Mr Frattini is the perfect candidate for the role. His CV speaks for itself and SIGA will benefit greatly from his vast experience and expertise. He has an impeccable track record and he is passionate about promoting good governance and sports integrity across SIGA’s three core strategic areas. 

 “With Frattini as Chair we are certain that SIGA has the right person in place to lead our coalition forward and ensure that SIGA makes a real contribution to ushering in a new era for sport.” 

Shellie Pfohl, SIGA council member and CEO of U.S. Centre for SafeSport added: “We welcome Mr Frattini as chair of SIGA. His track record of supporting the highest efforts in sports and in society in general is outstanding. We look forward to his leadership as SIGA continues to make positive change in sports ethics and integrity across the world.” 

During the General Assembly, SIGA also announced a number of new members including Parkour Earth, Safe Sport USA and MediaCom, as the international coalition continues to attract industry leaders from across the world of sport. The General Assembly also heard presentations from a number of prominent speakers including La Liga President Javier Tebas and Managing Director of Communications for UEFA, Pedro Pinto, who spoke of their common efforts in safeguarding their sports and promoting integrity and willingness to work with SIGA.

28.7.17 | Posted in , , , , , , , , , , | Continua »

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