IDO at the 18th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers Responsible for Sport

The Portuguese Government and EPAS (Enlarged Partial Agreement on Sport of the Council of Europe) organized the 18th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers Responsible for Sport, held in Porto, Portugal, from October 8-10, 2024. The conference, themed "Governing and Governance in Sport: Supporting a Fresh Approach to Match its Societal Importance," attracted over 200 participants, including key institutional partners, ministers, NGOs, and sports organizations from 50 countries. IDO, as a member of the EPAS Consultative Committee, was represented by Patrik Perosa, IDO Advisor to the President and a Bureau Member of this committee.

The Portuguese Government and EPAS (Enlarged Partial Agreement on Sport of the Council of Europe) organized the 18th Council of Europe Conference of Ministers Responsible for Sport, held in Porto, Portugal, from October 8-10, 2024. The conference, themed "Governing and Governance in Sport: Supporting a Fresh Approach to Match its Societal Importance," attracted over 200 participants, including key institutional partners, ministers, NGOs, and sports organizations from 50 countries. IDO, as a member of the EPAS Consultative Committee, was represented by Patrik Perosa, IDO Advisor to the President and a Bureau Member of this committee.

The event coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Macolin Convention on the Manipulation of Sports Competitions, which is the only legally binding international instrument aimed at protecting the integrity of sports from manipulation and illegal betting. On October 8, key stakeholders from public authorities, sports organizations, and betting operators gathered to reflect on the Convention's achievements and challenges, such as the slow pace of ratification. A declaration was adopted reaffirming the importance of the Convention and committing to its further implementation and expansion. Read the declaration: https://rm.coe.int/macolin-conference-8oct-declaration-en/1680b1e06b.

The 18th Council of Europe Conference, held on October 9, 2024, focused on governance in European sports, gender equality, and dual careers for athletes. The event promoted transparent, ethical, and inclusive management practices, emphasizing the importance of public policy and stakeholder dialogue. Key discussions centered on ensuring gender parity in sports leadership, combating issues like doping and match-fixing, and supporting athletes managing dual careers that balance education and professional commitments.

Speakers highlighted the need for collaborative governance aligned with the principles of the European Sports Charter, which advocates for human rights, fairness, and accessibility in sports. Panels on women's leadership in sports and dual careers highlighted the challenges women face in sports leadership and underscored the need for support systems for athletes balancing education and sports careers.

The conference concluded with the adoption of a resolution reaffirming the commitment to strengthening governance frameworks, fostering international cooperation, and promoting transparency and ethical behavior across Europe. Participants reiterated the view that sports should remain a key instrument for driving societal progress and fostering inclusivity. Read the adopted resolution: https://rm.coe.int/msl18-05rev2-resolution-adopted/1680b1e7c7.

The event also provided an opportunity for EPAS Consultative Committee members to meet and discuss, preceded by a Bureau meeting, both of which IDO is an active member.

More Information: https://www.coe.int/en/web/sport/-/18th-council-of-europe-conference-of-ministers-responsible-for-sport-in-porto-portugal-a-call-for-the-future-of-sport