Glasgow 2026 has published its Human Rights Statement, outlining a comprehensive commitment to dignity, safety and inclusion for everyone connected to the Commonwealth Games while positioning the event as a catalyst for positive social change across Scotland and the wider Commonwealth.

The statement places safeguarding and the protection of people at the centre of Games planning and delivery, with organisers pledging to embed human rights principles throughout the event’s Legacy Network and operational framework.

By integrating human rights into every stage of planning, Glasgow 2026 aims to establish a new benchmark for how major sporting events can proactively address issues such as human trafficking, exploitation and abuse, leaving a lasting legacy beyond the Games.

In support of this commitment, UK anti-human trafficking charity It’s a Penalty has launched a nationwide awareness campaign across Scotland aimed at preventing human trafficking and educating communities ahead of the Games.

The campaign seeks to help the public identify the warning signs of exploitation, understand how to respond safely and access trusted reporting channels. It will run before, during and after the Commonwealth Games, reaching thousands of residents, workers, volunteers and visitors through education and awareness initiatives in public spaces, transport networks and frontline sectors.

Several prominent athletes have joined the initiative as Athlete Ambassadors, including Paralympic champion Ellie Simmonds, Olympic middle-distance runner Laura Muir, Paralympian Adam Hall and former international sprinter Asha Philip. They will use their public platforms to raise awareness of human trafficking and encourage communities to take action against exploitation.

Glasgow 2026 Chief Executive Phil Batty OBE described the initiative as an important part of the Games’ broader vision.

“Through our Story of Change, we’re committed to using the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games as a catalyst for positive impact across Scotland and the wider Commonwealth,” Batty said.

“Sport is a powerful force for equity, dignity and inclusion, and Glasgow 2026 aims to create an environment where everyone connected to the Games feels safe, included and that they truly belong.

“We’re working to ensure that human rights are central to the legacy of Glasgow 2026, embedding them within our Legacy Network activities and championing them as a priority for future hosts of both the Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Youth Games. It’s brilliant to have It’s a Penalty and their campaign supporting this movement.”

Chief Executive Officer of It’s a Penalty, Sarah de Carvalho, said the Games provide a valuable platform to strengthen efforts against human trafficking.

“Glasgow 2026 presents a unique opportunity to bring people together around a powerful message: human trafficking has no place in Scotland,” she said.

“By increasing awareness, helping people recognise the signs of exploitation and encouraging action, we can create a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the Games themselves.”

The Human Rights Statement forms part of Glasgow 2026’s wider ambition to ensure the Commonwealth Games leave a meaningful social legacy, demonstrating how sport can be used to promote human rights, protect vulnerable people and inspire lasting change across the Commonwealth.