ACTION for Better Sport – Launching the Promotion of Good Governance!
As the coordinator of the ACTION project, our foundation is proud to announce the launch of a communication campaign promoting the most important results of this initiative, aimed at introducing real, lasting change in the way sport is governed across Europe. ACTION is more than just a project – it is a European roadmap for ethical, transparent, and accountable sport governance.
What is Good Governance and why is it so relevant today?
Good Governance is a set of principles that help sport organizations operate fairly, effectively, and in the public interest. It responds to an increasingly complex environment in which sport organizations function – helping them address challenges such as globalization, media pressure, rising public expectations, and the demand for transparency.
In practice, Good Governance means implementing specific mechanisms that ensure transparency, stakeholder involvement in decision-making, financial accountability, and ethical leadership.
The ACTION Project – A European Standard for Sport Governance
ACTION (Accountability, Cooperation, Transparency and Integrity for natiONal sport federations) is a multidimensional project developed in partnership with organizations across Europe. Its main outcome is the European Code of Good Governance in Sport, which outlines 20 principles grouped into five core areas:
- Effective General Assembly – as the organization’s main decision-making and supervisory body
- Legitimate Board – fairness, diversity, and clear election procedures
- Active Board – a board that works, communicates, and consults
- Accountable Federation – transparency in structure, reporting, and financial oversight
- Responsible Federation – committed to athlete welfare, ethics, and sustainability
What have we prepared?
We’re launching a new communication series titled “Good Governance in Sport for Beginners.” We’ve created a set of infographics, posts, and educational materials that explain each of the five pillars of the ACTION Code in a clear and accessible way. These materials are available on our social media channels, and at the end of the campaign, we’ll release a bonus downloadable PDF guide to help you better understand how to implement Good Governance principles in your organization.
Our goal is to reach everyone – from local sports clubs and national federations to students and emerging sport leaders. Because good governance should be accessible to all, not just experts.
What’s happening now?
We’re currently in the second edition of the project, known as ACTION+. This phase focuses on promoting the Code, supporting its implementation by partner federations, and testing educational tools. We’ve also begun expanding our collection of good practices and developing new training formats.
Why should you get involved?
Good governance is not just a slogan – it brings tangible benefits:
• Greater trust from members and sponsors
• Reduced risk of errors and misconduct
• More efficient resource management
• Better conditions for athletes and coaches
• Increased access to international funding and partnerships
At a time when sport faces climate challenges, digital transformation, and a crisis of trust, ethical governance is becoming a standard – not an option.
What can you do?
✅ Visit www.action.govsport.eu
✅ Share our materials in your networks
✅ Start a conversation about good governance in your organization
Check out our Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
