Last Update: February 01, 2023, 19:35 IST
FIFA has toughened its disciplinary proceedings for cases of sexual harassment or assault in a revised code of conduct that was announced and came into force on Wednesday.
The purpose of the code is to “enhance the protection of football integrity,” world football’s governing body said in a press release.
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It also targets clubs for match-fixing and failing to pay transfer fees.
“The changes are intended to improve the protection of certain parties to proceedings before FIFA’s judicial bodies, while providing FIFA with more tools against illegal, unethical or unethical methods and practices,” the release said.
The amended code removes the 10-year limitation period for prosecuting sexual offences.
The changes make potential victims “parties to the relevant proceedings who enjoy all procedural rights, such as being informed of the relevant decision and being entitled to appeal it.”
The code “also obliges member associations and confederations to inform FIFA of any decisions made on sexual exploitation and match-fixing.”
A series of sexual assault scandals in recent years, particularly in Gabon, Haiti, the United States and Afghanistan, have forced FIFA to take disciplinary action, especially in cases where local authorities have refused to act. .
FIFA said it would appoint an independent integrity expert to investigate match-fixing and coordinate with public authorities in assessing possible offenses and propose “appropriate disciplinary measures”.
FIFA said it was increasing transfer restrictions on indebted clubs that do not comply with rulings of its football tribunal and could impose 18% interest on unpaid debts.
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(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed)