Human Rights Protection in Youth Sports Programs: Legal Perspectives from Southeast Asian and South Asian Context
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38035/sijal.v2i4.311Keywords:
Youth Sports, Human Rights, Legal Protection, Southeast Asia, South AsiaAbstract
Youth sports programs in Southeast and South Asia face significant human rights challenges despite existing legal frameworks. This study examines legal protection mechanisms for young athletes across eleven countries through comparative legal analysis and case study methodology. Primary data sources include national legislation, sports policies, and regulatory documents, complemented by international reports and academic literature. Findings reveal substantial gaps between legislative provisions and implementation, particularly in monitoring systems, enforcement mechanisms, and institutional coordination. While most countries possess constitutional protections and child welfare laws, their application to sports contexts remains inconsistent. Cultural barriers, resource constraints, and weak institutional frameworks impede effective rights protection. Singapore and India demonstrate innovative approaches through comprehensive athlete welfare programs. Regional cooperation through ASEAN and SAARC frameworks offers potential pathways for harmonizing standards. Recommendations emphasize strengthening enforcement bodies, establishing independent oversight mechanisms, mandatory safeguarding policies for sports organizations, and enhanced regional collaboration. This research contributes to comparative sports law scholarship and provides practical guidance for policymakers and sports authorities in protecting youth athlete rights.
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