jordan pulse -

A lecture titled "Community Peace and Its Role in Reducing Stadium Violence" offered students at Middle East University a unique experience as they engaged in dialogue with Colonel Fadi Abu Khait, Commander of the Stadium Security Unit, on the causes, behavioural and social dimensions, and negative effects of stadium violence on sports and society.

The event was attended by the university's Vice President, Professor Dr. Salam Al-Mahadin, Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Louzi, Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Hazem Al-Nsour, and the Head of the Community Peace Centre, Major Omar Al-Khalaileh.

The lecture delved into the root causes of stadium violence, highlighting it as a reflection of various psychological and social influences, including a lack of sportsmanship fuelled by fanaticism and excessive emotional reactions.

Speakers also discussed the role of insufficient sports education in failing to instil values of tolerance and respect. They noted that aggressive behaviour in stadiums often stems from deeper societal pressures, calling for comprehensive solutions that integrate both sports and social perspectives.

The lecture stressed that stadium violence is not merely a breach of public security or legal violations but also represents a broader societal values crisis. Addressing this requires reshaping values around tolerance and mutual respect while promoting positive behaviour both inside and outside stadiums.

Attendees were briefed on the efforts of the Public Security Directorate, particularly the Stadium Security Unit, to tackle the phenomenon through preventive and deterrent strategies. These include enhanced security measures around stadiums, the use of advanced monitoring systems to detect violations, and awareness campaigns targeting youth to foster sportsmanship and curb fanaticism.

The event underscored the importance of collaboration among various entities to bring about a lasting change in fan behaviour. Educational and sports institutions were identified as vital in shaping youth awareness, while sports media was highlighted as a key partner in promoting a positive narrative. Additionally, sports clubs were urged to adopt policies that encourage ethical conduct and turn stadiums into environments that inspire fair competition.

In conclusion, the Public Security Directorate called for unified societal efforts to address stadium violence as not only a security issue but also a cultural and social challenge. It emphasised the need for cooperation between security institutions, civil society, and sports clubs to cultivate a new community culture that upholds respect, tolerance, and constructive coexistence.