Focus on research, innovation and education: International sports federations in dialogue
International sports federations are facing growing challenges in relation to research, innovation and education. To foster exchange, the SFISM has launched a new working group. This year’s event focused on athletes’ health.
International federations play a key role in the global sports system and are increasingly being called on to consider issues relating to professionalisation. Research, innovation and education are becoming increasingly important in effectively tackling current and future challenges. The SFISM has therefore set up a working group for representatives of international associations, with the aim of promoting mutual exchange and developing joint solutions. At this year’s meeting, eight international federations discussed the most pressing challenges, with the protection and improvement of athletes’ health emerging as the top priority.
Representatives of the international sports federations IOC (International Olympic Committee), FIS (Fédération Internationale de Ski), FISU (International University Sports Federation), IBU (International Biathlon Union), World Aquatics, European Athletics and ISMF (International Ski Mountaineering Federation) took part in a joint discussion and highlighted different organisational models for research, innovation and education within the federations’ structures. Two interactive workshops gave participants the opportunity to work through case studies, share experiences and discuss key challenges. The focus was on the athletes’ health, whilst at the same time there was scope for individual topics and open discussion within the group.
Maja Milatovic, a representative of the International Biathlon Union, summarised the meeting as follows:
The event was a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues from other international sport federations, exchange experiences, and gain fresh perspectives on how we can continue to lead and advance our sports through research, innovation and education. The exceptional venue and outstanding facilities at SFISM provided a perfect setting for open discussions and exchange of ideas, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in the development of sports globally.