After a review of the ISU Code of Ethics 2024, the ISU Council has decided to amend Article 7.6 on Reciprocity in order to allow an interim suspension imposed by another organization to be recognized and incorporated by decision of the ISU Council. 

Subsequent to this decision, as regards the case of the Skater Ivan Desyatov (USA) who has been temporarily suspended for alleged sexual misconduct by U.S. Safe Sport on October 18, 2024 pending disciplinary decision by the competent authority, and the case of the Skater Nicolaj Soerensen (CAN) who has been suspended for sexual maltreatment for a minimum of six years by Canada’s Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner on October 4, 2024, while recognizing the presumption of innocence, considering the seriousness of the alleged offences the ISU Council has decided to expand the suspensions, considered as interim, to all ISU activities and Competitions sanctioned by the ISU. The Council also recommends that all ISU Members expand the suspensions to all activities and events under their control.

These decisions will stay in force until further notice. 

The ISU treats reports of misconduct with the utmost seriousness and recognizes the profound impact such cases can have on those involved. To further strengthen our commitment to athlete safeguarding, we have taken several key steps. These include the appointment of an ISU Safeguarding Officer, the introduction of a comprehensive Athlete Safeguarding Policy and the enhancement of the ISU Code of Ethics. 

Athlete safeguarding is a priority for the ISU and anyone with concerns related to safeguarding can contact safeguarding@isu.ch or via the ISU website Athlete Safeguarding page. All cases are handled confidentially.

The ISU remains dedicated to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all participants and actively safeguard athletes from abuse, harassment and exploitation and counts on the support of the skating community in upholding these principles. Skaters and participants’ safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.