Mari-José Pérec

Marie-José Pérec is a former French track and field athlete, three-time Olympic champion, and one of the greatest figures in world athletics. A specialist in the 200m and 400m, she won gold in the 400m at the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992, then achieved a historic 200m–400m double at the Atlanta Games in 1996. She is also a two-time World Champion in the 400m (Tokyo 1991 and Gothenburg 1995). A towering figure in French sport, she defined her era through her talent, determination, and the breadth of her achievements. In 2024, she had the honor of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony of the Paris Games — a powerful symbol of the passing of the torch between generations of athletes. Today, Marie-José Pérec is committed to passing on the values of sport, particularly around respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity, regularly engaging with young people, businesses, and institutions.

Why is the International Day Against Harassment and for Inclusion in the Workplace so important?

The International Day Against Harassment and for Inclusion in the Workplace is essential because it reminds us that performance and success can only be sustained in a respectful environment. Harassment weakens individuals, destroys trust, and prevents everyone from fully expressing their potential. In sport as in business, I have learned that the strength of a team rests on respect, listening, and the space given to each person. Inclusion is not just a moral value — it is also a prerequisite for allowing all talents to exist and contribute. Dedicating a day to discuss, raise awareness, and take action is a reminder that dignity at work is not optional — it is a collective responsibility.