German swimming association proposes mandatory swimming badge for children in pools

Germany's swimming instructor association (BDS) is advocating for a mandatory "Freischwimmer" (bronze) swimming badge for all children and adolescents under 16 entering public swimming pools. The proposal, aimed at tackling the alarming decline in swimming proficiency among young Germans, seeks to place greater responsibility on parents to ensure their children can swim safely.

Peter Harzheim, president of the BDS, described the initiative as a "wake-up call for parents" and urged nationwide adoption by pool operators. The "Freischwimmer" badge requires demonstrating knowledge of pool rules, swimming 15 minutes continuously, diving two meters to retrieve an object, and performing a basic dive. The German Lifesaving Association (DLRG) has long warned about the consequences of fewer people knowing how to swim.

While the DLRG's president, Ute Vogt, expressed understanding for the proposal, emphasizing that the responsibility for children's safety cannot solely fall on pool staff, concerns have been raised about potential social inequality. Green Party politician Schahina Gambir cautioned against excluding children from disadvantaged families, stressing that any mandatory badge requirement must be accompanied by measures to ensure universal access to swimming lessons.

Christian Mankel, managing director of the German Society for Bathing, noted the risk of uncontrolled behavior if non-swimmers are barred from pools, potentially leading them to unsupervised natural waters. However, he acknowledged the discussion's validity, especially given the crowded conditions in public pools during summer. Discussions about implementing such a badge requirement are reportedly underway in several pools in North Rhine-Westphalia.