International Association of ESD Professionals Launches Global Industry Regulations to Elevate Standards in Empowerment Self-Defense
- Author: Claude Jonkmans
- Reading time: 2 min
Empowerment Self-Defense Professionals stress urgent action against rising violence and discrimination
The International Association of ESD Professionals (IAESDP) is proud to announce the official release of the International Standards and Regulations for Empowerment Self-Defense (ESD) Professionals, a comprehensive framework designed to advance excellence, safety, and accountability in the ESD industry worldwide.
A Significant Milestone
Available now at www.ESDProfessionals.org, these guidelines mark a significant milestone in the professionalization of Empowerment Self-Defense. Developed through rigorous global consultation and aligned with ISO and NCCA certification standards, the regulations define ethical conduct, core competencies, credentialing, and training program accreditation for ESD professionals across all regions.
With the growing demand for ESD as a violence-prevention tool rooted in empowerment and equity, the need for consistent, high-quality standards is more urgent than ever. These new industry regulations set a unified standard of excellence for ESD instructors, trainers, and organizations globally to ensure ethical, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive practices.
Key Highlights of the Regulations
Key highlights of the regulations include:
- A global Code of Ethics grounded in safety, consent, inclusion, and integrity
- Detailed professional competencies for ESD instructors and trainers
- Requirements for credentialing (including the ESDP and ESDA credentials) and continuing education
- Voluntary program accreditation to ensure quality and accountability in instructor training
- Legal and ethical guidance for compliance across diverse regions and sectors
The framework is designed to support professionals, certifying bodies, and oversight agencies, from NGOs to universities to government partners in order to ensure clarity, consistency, and public trust in ESD worldwide. Whether working in urban centers or rural communities, ESD professionals now have a clear, internationally recognized benchmark for safe and effective practice.
The IAESDP invites ESD professionals, program directors, educators, and allies to explore the full set of standards and join the movement to elevate and unify the field.
For more information, credentialing support, or to download the full standards document, visit: www.ESDProfessionals.org
Contact
Email: credentials@esdprofessionals.org
Website: www.ESDProfessionals.org
Instagram/Facebook: @esdprofessionals