On Wednesday morning (22), the opening of the International Seminar on Integrity and Prevention of Corruption in Sport took place. This event is promoted by the Ministry of Sport and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
For two days, the focus will be on discussing the manipulation of sports competitions both in Brazil and abroad.
Valeska Queiróz, Chief of Staff of the Minister of Sports, André Fufuca, highlighted the relevance of the seminar as a unique opportunity to address challenges related to integrity. “Today we begin two days of international seminar. This is a historic moment, because the challenge goes far beyond Brazil.
The world needs this confrontation. And we, here at the Ministry of Sports, in different areas, are committed and convinced of our role in society as drivers of protection and the fight against corruption in sport”, he declared.
UNODC Director Elena Abbati also highlighted the importance of good practices in the fight against corruption in sport. She stated that the event demonstrates the effectiveness of international cooperation.
“This event is a clear demonstration of how international cooperation and dialogue can generate impactful solutions to protect sport and advance the 2030 Agenda.”
The event also featured Olavo Caldas, deputy executive secretary of the Comptroller General of the Union, and Fátima Cleide, National Secretary of the Ministry of Women. Both participated actively during the opening of the seminar.
Discussion panels encourage the fight against corruption in sport
The first panel was led by Ronan O’Laoire from UNODC. He exposed the main challenges and new trends in combating sports corruption. The panel addressed issues on a global and specific scale in Brazil, involving participants of international relevance.
Then, the second panel discussed the manipulation of sports competitions. With the participation of entities such as the International Olympic Committee and the Federal Police, the focus was on effective investigative practices.
Giovanni Rocco, Secretary of Sports Betting, highlighted the need for global partnerships. “The fight against manipulation is an internationally integrated effort, because a competition that may be taking place here in Brazil may be being manipulated abroad. Therefore, this coordination with the rest of the world and with good practices is fundamental”, he highlighted.
During the event, the program seeks to increase awareness about corruption and other crimes linked to sport. They will share effective experiences and tools, promoting an environment of exchange and learning.
“The public present will find a lot of information and content to better understand the world of sports betting and the fight against corruption in the world of sport”, concluded Rocco.
The event continues until this Thursday (23), at the Ministry of Sports Auditorium.