Target: Gianni Infantino, President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA)
Goal: Praise decision to ban and fine official who allegedly abused his position to exploit vulnerable young people.
The ethics committee of soccer’s highest international regulatory body has permanently banned Yves Jean-Bart, president of the Haitian Football Federation, from participation in the sport. The finding, along with a $1.1 million fine in United States Dollars, is the result of a months-long investigation into charges of extensive and shocking sexual abuse by Jean-Bart, resulting in a victory for the young women affected, their families, fans of the sport, and those who signed petitions like this one.
Jean-Bart, who took office in 2020, faced numerous accusations of abusive and exploitative treatment of young soccer players extending over two decades. In addition to violating their rights and dignity, he is suspected of withholding passports and keeping athletes effectively imprisoned at Haiti’s top soccer training center, allegedly with the complicity of other top officials and coaches. Congratulate the International Federation of Association Football for ensuring justice is served.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mr. Infantino,
The presence of an alleged predator in the highest ranks of Haitian sports was a grave danger for young athletes and a mark of shame for Haitian soccer fans. For nearly twenty years, Yves Jean-Bart is believed to have used his authority to victimize players under the age of 18 with the help of senior Haitian soccer officials and coaches.
Although Jean-Bart is unlikely to be required to answer for his alleged actions in Haitian courts due to a culture of silence and intimidation towards victims of abuse, the decision by the FIFA Ethics Committee is a welcome act of justice. Thank you and your colleagues for delivering this crucial decision and removing Jean-Bart from a position in which he could seemingly do further harm.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Department for International Development / Russell Watkins
Sexual predators must NEVER be in organizations which allow them access to children. Filthy, disgusting perverts. Lock him up and I hope the same is done to him in prison.