“Every Dancer Matters” – IDO Launches Global Safeguarding Awareness Campaign

The International Dance Organization has officially launched its global safeguarding awareness campaign titled “Every Dancer Matters,” an initiative dedicated to strengthening the protection, wellbeing, and rights of dancers across the worldwide dance community.

As one of the leading global dance federations, representing more than 90 member nations and thousands of dancers participating in competitions and educational programs each year, the International Dance Organization continues to place the safety and wellbeing of dancers at the center of its mission.

The Every Dancer Matters campaign aims to raise awareness about safeguarding principles and ensure that dancers of all ages are able to train, perform, and compete in environments built on safety, respect, and trust.

Safeguarding is a fundamental responsibility within IDO competitions, educational activities, and events. The organization emphasizes that every dancer has the right to participate in dance free from abuse, harassment, exploitation, or discrimination.

As part of this initiative, IDO has launched a dedicated safeguarding website designed to support dancers, coaches, clubs, organizers, and national member organizations with accessible safeguarding information and educational resources.

The platform provides guidance on safeguarding principles, responsibilities, and procedures, as well as information about how safeguarding concerns can be addressed within the IDO framework.

The safeguarding website is available at:

https://safeguarding.ido-academy.com/

The safeguarding initiative is supported by a dedicated safeguarding structure working to promote awareness, education, and responsible safeguarding practices throughout the international dance community.

Safeguarding education and awareness activities are guided by Rachel Jackson, safeguarding specialist and educator, who contributes to the development of safeguarding knowledge through seminars, lectures, and educational programs.

Operational safeguarding responsibilities are overseen by Wendy Baker, serving as IDO Safeguarding Officer, responsible for safeguarding procedures, reporting mechanisms, and guidance in safeguarding-related situations within the organization.

Together with the leadership of IDO, the safeguarding team works to ensure that dancers, coaches, clubs, organizers, and national member organizations clearly understand safeguarding responsibilities and the mechanisms available for reporting concerns.

Dr. Velibor Srdić, President of the International Dance Organization, emphasized the importance of the campaign:

“Safeguarding is not only a policy but a responsibility shared by the entire dance community. Our goal is to ensure that every dancer, especially young dancers, can train and compete in environments built on respect, safety, and trust. Through this campaign and the launch of the safeguarding platform, IDO continues to strengthen its commitment to protecting dancers worldwide.”

Through the Every Dancer Matters campaign and the launch of the safeguarding website, the International Dance Organization reinforces its dedication to building a responsible, supportive, and safe global dance community.

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