The Alliance of Independent Recognized Members of Sport (AIMS) held its 2024 General Assembly at the prestigious Olympic House in Lausanne. As a recognized umbrella organization of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), AIMS plays a critical role as a gateway for numerous sports federations to join the Olympic family. In addition to AIMS members, observers currently undergoing the membership process were also invited to participate.

The General Assembly opened with a welcome address from Kit McConnell, IOC Sports Director, who commended AIMS for its impactful initiatives and highlighted the organization’s vital role as a key partner of the IOC. McConnell praised AIMS as one of the four IOC-recognized umbrella organizations contributing significantly to the global sports community. AIMS President Stephan Fox, representing all AIMS members, expressed sincere appreciation to the IOC Sports Department for its unwavering support, stressing how this collaboration has been instrumental in driving the development of member federations.

Major Announcements from the General Assembly

1. Launch of the AIMS Recognition Process
Michal Buchel, Chair of the SportAccord Membership Commission, introduced a formal recognition pathway for sports federations, launched by SportAccord. This process ensures that federations adhere to high standards of governance and compliance. Buchel also outlined updates to membership policies, focusing on transparency and accountability as foundational principles for maintaining excellence within recognized federations.

2. Strengthened Anti-Doping Collaboration with the ITA
AIMS announced a strategic partnership with the International Testing Agency (ITA) to implement harmonized, code-compliant anti-doping programs for its members. The initiative addresses challenges such as resource limitations and regulatory compliance by centralizing anti-doping operations. Laetitia Zumbrunnen, Senior Manager of Sport Movement Relations, Valentin Capelli, Manager of Sport Movement Relations, and ITA Director Benjamin Cohen delivered a detailed presentation explaining how this collaboration ensures consistent adherence to the World Anti-Doping Code. AIMS members expressed strong support for this initiative, which offers cost-effective solutions and shared resources to enhance anti-doping efforts across all federations.

3. Launch of the AIMS Good Governance Project
AIMS Vice President Dr. Julie Gabriel provided updates on important ongoing projects and officially announced the launch of the AIMS Good Governance Project. This key initiative aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and governance standards across all member federations. The project includes governance training, policy development, and monitoring mechanisms designed to promote ethical conduct and best practices in sports administration.

Key Assembly Updates

Constitutional Amendments
The Assembly approved a series of constitutional amendments, including updates to membership criteria and dispute resolution processes. New provisions were introduced to enhance member compliance with WADA standards, alongside stricter measures for managing non-compliance.

Multisport Games
The Assembly received updates on the development of multisport games, with a focus on expanding opportunities for athletes and increasing AIMS’ presence on the global stage.

United Through Sports (UTS) and Mission 89 Initiative
AIMS reiterated its commitment to combating human trafficking in sports through the United Through Sports (UTS) initiative and Mission 89. These efforts are designed to protect vulnerable athletes and promote social responsibility within the sporting community. Azura Binti, representing Malaysia, presented the concept for the upcoming UTS Festival, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur next year.

Financial Transparency
A comprehensive financial report was presented, highlighting AIMS’ commitment to sustainability and efficient resource management, ensuring the organization remains well-positioned for future growth and initiatives.

ISSA Cooperation
Nasser Ayman Majali, Secretary General of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA), outlined ISSA’s efforts to foster solidarity and community empowerment through sports. Majali expressed enthusiasm about working closely with AIMS and its members, emphasizing strategic development and the organization of multisport events.

In his closing remarks, AIMS President Stephan Fox reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting ethical governance, fair play, and safeguarding athletes. “These initiatives are more than just programs; they represent our unwavering dedication to the values that unite the global sports community,” Fox said. “We are committed to setting new standards for recognition and governance while ensuring that every athlete competes in a safe and fair environment. I am confident that the initiatives we launched today will have a lasting impact on the future of sports”.