Updated FIFA code of conduct targets sexual offenses
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FIFA introduces on February 1 new editions of its Disciplinary Code and Code of Ethics.
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Head of French Football Federation (FFF) Noel Le Graet attends a press conference in Paris, Wednesday, March 2, 2016. French soccer federation president Noël Le Graët is under investigation for "sexual harassment" and "moral harassment," the Paris prosecutor's office said on Tuesday Jan.17, 2023 (AP)
FIFA has toughened its disciplinary proceedings for sexual harassment cases in a revised Code of Ethics that was announced and came into effect on Wednesday.
In a press release, the governing body of world football said the code is intended "to enhance protection of football integrity" and targets match-fixing and clubs that fail to pay transfer fees.
"The changes are aimed at improving the protection of certain parties to proceedings before FIFA's judicial bodies, while providing FIFA with further instruments against illegal, immoral or unethical methods and practices," said the release.
Read: FFF President Le Graet under investigation for sexual harassment
The revised code removes the limitation period of 10 years on prosecuting sexual offenses and forces "member associations and confederations to notify FIFA of any decisions rendered on sexual abuse and match-fixing."
The changes make the possible victims "parties to the relevant proceedings, who enjoy all procedural rights, such as that of being notified of the relevant decision and being entitled to appeal it."
In recent years, a series of sexual assault scandals, particularly in Haiti, the United States, Gabon, and Afghanistan forced FIFA into disciplinary proceedings, especially in cases where the local authorities denied to act.
An independent integrity expert would be designated to investigate match-fixing, coordinate with the public authorities in assessing potential offenses, and propose "appropriate disciplinary measures", FIFA said.
It was extending transfer bans on debtor clubs that do not abide by Football Tribunal decisions and could charge 18 percent interest on unpaid debts, FIFA added.
