Key features of a European sport model

SUMMARY OF:

Resolution on the key features of a European sport model

WHAT IS THE AIM OF THE RESOLUTION?

It aims to promote the benefits of the values and traditions of European sport for European society. The resolution highlights the key features of a European sport model, mainly focusing on values-based organised sport.

KEY POINTS

The European Union (EU) and sport

Under Article 6 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) (see summary) action at the EU level should support, coordinate and supplement the actions of the EU Member States.
Article 165 of TFEU (see summary) confirms that the EU can take measures to contribute to the promotion of European sport, while respecting its specific nature, voluntary structures and social and educational functions.
The EU work plan for sport, from 1 January 2021 to 30 June 2024, was adopted by resolution in December 2020.

As sport is the responsibility of the Member States, the resolution suggests (rather than prescribes) action to the relevant parties.

European sport model

Member States, the European Commission and sport organisations are asked to support the key features of the European sport model, which include:

freedom of association;
a pyramidal structure;
open system of promotion and relegation;
grassroots approach and solidarity; and
community building.

Recommendations for Member States, in line with the subsidiarity principle, include:

promoting values in sport and sport organisations governed by fundamental principles such as:
- gender equality,
- solidarity, and
- respect for human rights;
acknowledging and preserving the specific nature of sport and its structures based on voluntary activity;
recognising and supporting, where appropriate, the contribution of volunteers, grassroots sport clubs, families and local communities.

Recommendations for the Commission include:

to support the role of sport and its educational dimension, such as dual careers of athletes;
to foster cooperation and structured dialogue with the sport movement, athletes’ groups, commercial organisers and other interested parties;
to draw attention to the consequences of closed sport competitions on organised sport in the EU.

Recommendations for sport organisations include:

to promote solidarity among sport organisations at all levels to help recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and for the sustainability and further development of the sport sector;
to commit to financial solidarity between professional and grassroots sport;
to promote and facilitate the access of young athletes and under-represented groups to take part and be engaged in decision-making in sport, where appropriate.

BACKGROUND

A new study on the European sport model was published in June 2022.

MAIN DOCUMENT

Resolution of the Council and of the representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the key features of a European Sport Model (OJ C 501, 13.12.2021, pp. 1–7).

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