A case of sexual harassment involving a female footballer has come to light following a complaint filed by the player with the Cyprus Footballers’ Association (PASP).
According to a statement by PASP, the player recently approached the Association, revealing she had been a victim of sexual harassment and seeking its support and protection.
The player, who wishes to remain anonymous at this stage, sought information on the protection and support mechanisms established by sports authorities.
“PASP has contacted the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) and the Cyprus Sports Organisation (CSO), requesting their cooperation and assistance,” the statement said, noting that, given the seriousness of the matter, it is not appropriate to engage in public debate on the issue.
In letters sent by PASP’s legal advisors on behalf of the player, they inquired whether the CFA has procedures to provide psychological support, protection, and assistance to players who report sexual harassment. They also requested information on measures to ensure the safety of individuals who report harassment from retaliation or pressure, should they proceed with an official complaint.
In a written statement, CFA spokesperson Konstantinos Siamboullis called on PASP to immediately submit all evidence to the relevant police authorities.
“The matter is extremely serious and requires appropriate handling by all parties involved,” Siamboullis stated. “Complaints of this nature should be directly referred to law enforcement and not be the subject of public debate or correspondence.”
He also stressed that the “CFA unequivocally condemns any form of abuse or harassment in sports and is ready, within its remit, to provide all possible support and assistance to anyone affected.”
Siamboullis added that the incident reported by PASP must be promptly submitted to the police so the necessary investigative procedures can follow.
“Any further public discussion of the matter can only cause harm,” he concluded.
The CSO also issued a statement regarding the case. Following a complaint received in the morning about the sexual harassment of a female athlete, the CSO stated it acted immediately, providing a response detailing the actions that can be taken. The CSO also shared the letter it sent to the lawyer representing the female athlete and PASP.
In the response letter, signed by CSO President Yiannis Ioannou, it was stated that the CSO has established collaborations with competent services and adopted a code of practice within the public service for the prevention and management of harassment and sexual harassment.
The letter also noted that the CSO could provide information to the athlete on the complaint process and offer psychological support through state services, organisations, and programmes. Additionally, the CSO expressed its readiness to monitor how the case is handled by the relevant federation.
The announcement also named the CFA’s appointed Safeguarding Officer as Charis Kyrillou.
The CSO confirmed the letter had been shared with the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights, the Commissioner for Gender Equality, the CFA, and the Cyprus Police.
Also read: Police officer arrested for assault and harassment allegations
Source: CNA
