The Biathlon Integrity Unit will shortly be contacting athletes to invite them to take part in a groundbreaking study about the mental and physical health of athletes, and their experiences of harassment and abuse.

Every day, athletes are training and competing at the highest level, but there is limited information on the negative experiences that affect them. The study aims to fill this gap in knowledge, with the ultimate goal of further developing the BIU’s safeguarding strategies.

The study takes the form of an anonymised questionnaire, that will take about 15 minutes to complete. All biathletes aged 16 and over are eligible to participate, once they have provided informed consent.

The study is being conducted by researchers from Thomas More University of Applied Sciences in Antwerp, Belgium, in collaboration with the BIU.

Why should you participate?

By participating, you will make a valuable contribution to the safety and wellbeing of athletes in biathlon. You will be able to gain an increased awareness and education on key topics related to your own safety, health and well-being.

At the same time, the BIU will gain more knowledge to develop specific prevention measures that can only be developed and taken into action by having a clear picture about any potential issues or needs.

Therefore, this study is working towards a common goal – for a fair and safe sport.

Participation is voluntary, and you may withdraw at any time, without penalty. The information that you provide will be kept strictly confidential. The data collected will be stored securely and will not be accessible to anyone outside the research team. Your responses will remain anonymous. The BIU and the IBU will not be able to identify anyone who participates.

If you have any questions regarding the study and your participation, contact Katharina Gatterer (BIU Safeguarding Officer, +43 664 1922 456, [email protected]).

Thank you in advance for your support and cooperation!