Veil lifted: women chess players brave the silence and reveal a dark side of the community

Voices Break the Silence: French Women Chess Players Denounce Unacceptable Abuse

In an open letter published under the pseudonym “X,” around ten French women chess players have denounced acts of sexist and sexual violence that have long remained unspoken within the chess community. These courageous testimonies shed light on a serious problem within the chess world and call for a collective awakening.

A Culture in Need of Reform: Sexist and Sexual Violence Shakes the Chess World

Players, coaches, arbiters and officials have testified to verbal, written and physical abuse perpetrated by players, coaches, arbiters and officials within the chess world. These revelations raise questions about the culture of the chess community and highlight the need to adopt measures to create a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for everyone involved in the game.

The Federation’s Support: A Glimmer of Hope for Change

The French Chess Federation (FFE) has expressed its support for the players who have braved the silence by speaking out about the abuse they suffered. The FFE’s vice-president, Jean-Baptiste Mullon, has affirmed that the federation will systematically stand by victims. Measures have been taken since 2021, including a simplification of reporting procedures and financial support for victims through the federation’s insurance scheme.

A Call to Action: “Breaking the Silence” to Transform the Chess World

The players who signed the letter have encouraged all women players to speak out about the abuse they have suffered. They firmly believe that harassment and sexist and sexual abuse are among the main reasons why women and girls give up chess, particularly during adolescence. By speaking out, they hope to break free from the weight of shame and pave the way for positive change within the chess community.

A Commitment to a Better Future: Reform Underway

The FFE has taken concrete measures to combat sexual abuse within the chess community. It has worked with the Signal-sports unit of the Ministry of Sport and partnered with the association “Colosse aux pieds d’argile” to combat sexual abuse in sport. These initiatives demonstrate the federation’s commitment to transforming the chess world into a safer and more inclusive space for all players, whatever their gender.

A Call for Unity: A Collective Responsibility

As chess players, we all share a collective responsibility to build a respectful, equal and violence-free culture within our community. It is time to reach out to women players, to support them, and to work together to build a future for chess in which everyone can flourish fully, regardless of gender.