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Micheline Calmy-Rey, president of the Ethics Foundation of the World Gymnastics Federation, speaks for the first time about the incidents in Swiss gymnastics.
These are shocking findings that an external investigation report confirmed last week. In rhythmic gymnastics in Switzerland, conditions prevailed over the past eight years that one can hardly imagine: from the poor health of gymnasts to a miserable training culture.
The measures should help prevent something like this from happening again. Among other things, there is a new ethics committee. The Swiss Gymnastics Federation is also under the supervision of the International Gymnastics Federation, which is based in Lausanne. An international ethical foundation has existed for approximately two years. Its president is former Federal Councilor Micheline Calmy-Rey.
She was shocked by what happened in Switzerland, says Calmy-Rey, but unfortunately it is not surprising. Gymnastics has a fundamental problem: “There is a troubled culture that has been established for decades,” says Calmy-Rey. “A kind of system in which the dependencies and the imbalance of power become very clear. Not everywhere, but too often. “
Gymnasts are at particular risk of psychological pressure, he says. “In my opinion, this culture is more related to gymnastics than to a specific country or region.”
Wide range of cases
The complaints commission has dealt with about 50 cases since then; several cases are now in the hands of the disciplinary commission. These cases are very different, so Calmy-Rey. “There are many different types of harassment and abuse. Whether it’s physical advances, verbal attacks, virtual harassment, neglect, intimidation or other forms of harassment. “
Micheline Calmy-Rey cannot say more due to ongoing procedures and discretion. The victims would have to have full confidence, only then would they dare to take the difficult step of reporting the incidents to the ethics foundation of the international gymnastics association. He admires all who find the courage to speak out against these practices. This is difficult, but very important.
Second ongoing investigation report
As president of the ethics foundation of the international gymnastics federation, Calmy-Rey was also called as an expert in the external report investigating the events of rhythmic gymnastics in Switzerland. There is one point on which he disagrees with the report: criticism of the regional performance center in Biel. Because this pointed to the events in Magglingen and therefore started the investigations, and therefore should be commended.
A second independent investigative report commissioned by Federal Councilor Viola Amherd may provide more clarity on the events that occurred at the high-performance centers in Biel and Magglingen.
Calmy-Rey is in contact with her and the teaching lawyers, as well as the Swiss Gymnastics Federation. The primary responsibility for changing the culture of harmful gymnastics training rests with national associations, says Calmy-Rey. “These changes are difficult because it is a cultural issue. That is why we work closely with national associations. We are only at the beginning, but we are very determined. “
