BELGIUM Law and Practice Contributed by: Sven Demeulemeester, Willem-Alexander Devlies and Daan Buylaert, ATFiELD
Consumer protection laws Ticket sales and event services must comply with Belgian consumer protection laws, ensuring fair pricing, refund policies and non-discrimina - tory practices. Data protection (GDPR) Event organisers collecting personal data from attendees must adhere to the General Data Pro - tection Regulation (GDPR). Competition law Agreements regarding broadcasting and spon - sorship deals must comply with EU and Belgian competition regulations to prevent monopolistic practices. Organisation and Management of Sports Events in Belgium Sports events in Belgium are typically organised by national federations, private entities or local authorities. Key organisational aspects include the following. Event planning and permits Organisers secure permits from local authori - ties for venue usage, security and public safety compliance. Collaboration with stakeholders Co-ordination with government bodies, sports federations, broadcasters and sponsors is essential. Logistics and infrastructure Setting up venues, transportation, accommoda - tion and medical facilities are crucial elements of event management. Governance of Participation in Sports Events Participation in sports events in Belgium is gov - erned by the following.
National and international federation rules Each sport has specific regulations set by its national governing body, often aligned with inter - national standards. Anti-doping regulations Participants must comply with anti-doping rules established by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and enforced by the Belgian NADOs. Eligibility and licensing requirements Athletes must meet eligibility criteria, which may include licensing by relevant sports federations. 3.2 Liability Duty of Care Owed by Sports Event Organisers In Belgium, sports event organisers owe a duty of care to participants, spectators and staff. This duty is established through several legal frame - works. General Civil Liability (Articles 1382–1386 of the old Belgian Civil Code – Articles 6.1–6.55 new Belgian Civil Code) Organisers must take reasonable measures to prevent harm. Negligence resulting in injury or damage can lead to liability claims. Consumer protection laws Organisers must ensure that ticket holders receive the expected service, including safety measures and proper event management. Occupational Safety Regulations (Well-being at Work Act, 1996) These regulations protect employees and volun - teers working at sports events, requiring compli - ance with safety standards.
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