New Project: VÄNtilera

From Silence to Safety: New Initiative with Equestrian Sports to Support Young Friends

Every week, thousands of children and young people meet at stables across the country. Equestrian sports is one of Sweden’s largest youth sports—and an environment where safety must come first. Yet new research shows that many young people within the equestrian sector have experienced sexual harassment or abuse.

On February 1, 2026, VÄNtilera will launch—a national, multi-year project designed to support young people who are friends with someone who has been subjected to sexual abuse or who have themselves harmed others. The initiative is led by the Swedish Equestrian Federation in close collaboration with ChildX, with support from the Swedish Inheritance Fund.

“We know that young people who confide in a friend are three times more likely to seek professional support. This demonstrates the power of friendship, but also the responsibility we adults have. VÄNtilera is about taking that power seriously and equipping both young people and adults with tools to act. That is how we move from silence to safety,” says Ida Östensson, Secretary General of ChildX.

For many children, it is not an adult but a peer who first learns what has happened. Yet support and language for how to help someone who has been harmed, or who has harmed someone else, are often lacking. VÄNtilera takes this reality seriously and aims to create structures that ensure no one is left alone.

As a knowledge partner, ChildX contributes expertise in children’s rights, sexual violence, and prevention work. The project is based on research, young people’s experiences, and proven methods for creating safety.

Throughout the project, workshops, training programs, and ambassador initiatives will be developed and disseminated across the equestrian sports community, with the goal of creating a culture where children and young people dare to speak up, adults take action, and genuine support is available.

VÄNtilera is a continuation of the Swedish Equestrian Federation’s long-term safety work, including the Safe Leaders initiative.