The XLIV CEV General Assembly, which took place in Brussels just before the CEV Women’s EuroVolley 2023 Grand Final, successfully addressed the volleyball community’s concerns about a previously adopted article limiting the possibilities of candidacy for the CEV President. The article required a CEV President candidate to have extensive experience in volleyball and leadership, including at least four years as a board member in a National or International Volleyball Federation.
In case of candidate to the position of CEV President, to have a broad experience in
CEV General Regulations Section 3 – Article 1.1 §4 g
Volleyball and leadership, including serving at least 4 years as board member in a National
or International Volleyball Federation,
However, according to our reliable sources, the General Assembly did not accept this amendment and instead supported a proposal by Sebastian Swiderski, President of the Polish Volleyball Federation. The proposal called for a revocation of the decision taken in Turin on May 20th concerning the new criteria under Section 3, Article 1.1 §4g of the CEV General Regulations and not to set any additional limitations to the candidate to the position of CEV President.
“Vote to revoke the BoA decision taken on 20th of May in Turin on the new criteria under Section 3, Article 1.1 §4g of the CEV General Regulations and not to set any new additional limitations to the candidate to the position of CEV President”.
Proposal from Sebastian Swiderski, President of the Polish Volleyball Federation, for Adding a New Topic to the CEV General Assembly Agenda
A Win for Democracy and Fairness
This decision by the General Assembly allowed for the most democratic and fairest possible election of candidates for this prestigious and responsible position in European volleyball. It also confirmed that the governance of the CEV adheres to the principles of good governance and democracy, not only in theory but in practice. This decision marked a significant victory for democracy within the world of sport, ensuring that the collective voice of the European volleyball community is heard and respected.
CEV President Aleksandar Boričić closed the session with an emotional address, receiving a standing ovation for highlighting the impressive transformation that the CEV has experienced under his leadership since 2015. He emphasized the need for continuous hard work and striving for further improvement and excellence. The General Assembly also provided an opportunity to review the latest achievements of European Volleyball and lay the groundwork for the years ahead. The assembly approved a strategic plan for the next five years, which includes a continuous investment in the sport, a centralized data platform for data-driven decisions, and an expanded focus on fan engagement.
Looking Ahead
The European Volleyball family will come together again next year in Naples, Italy, on August 24, with elections planned for the Presidency, the Board of Administration, and to define those due to represent Europe in the FIVB Board of Administration for the next four-year term.
In conclusion, the XLIV CEV General Assembly in Brussels was a triumph for democracy and fairness in the world of European volleyball. It reaffirmed the commitment to good governance, continuous improvement, and the growth of the sport at all levels.
