As we approach the end of 2024 I want to reflect on the strides IBSA has taken in a truly remarkable year, a Paralympic Games year and share a look forward to the New Year 2025

This year, IBSA embarked on a transformative journey of significant reforms with the approval of the Executive Board. Central to those reforms has been the clear separation of governance—those who are elected to lead—and management, which oversees the operational implementation of governance decisions. For too long, this vital distinction had been overlooked, creating many conflicts of interest. Today, I am proud to say that our new professional IBSA Administration is fully operational and is already making a profound impact.

From the outset, one of the main priorities has been to reform the financial oversight and accountancy of IBSA. Improving the financial health of the organization and creating sustainable resources for investment in IBSA sports and global development has been a cornerstone of those efforts. To achieve this, a comprehensive financial analysis of 2022–2023 was undertaken which served as the foundation for establishing professional accounting practices—a long-standing neglect of the former IBSA. Recently The Board approved a new policy for the reform of the per capitation and license fee structure: a crucial step toward stabilizing our financial situation and enabling IBSA to invest directly in the development of sport.

2024 will, of course, be remembered for the unforgettable Paris Paralympics. IBSA sports shone brightly on the global stage, with packed stands witnessing incredible performances. The athletes demonstrated remarkable strength and spirit, captivating the world with their dedication and determination. For IBSA, these Games held special significance for me and others in our team as we participated in the medal ceremonies for blind athletes in athletics and swimming — a proud moment for us all.

This year also marked the launch of a comprehensive review of all IBSA activities. The findings of this Review will guide IBSA in preparing the next package of reforms, ensuring the organization remains flexible to respond to an ever changing world and always forward-thinking. Regular IBSA Board meetings have become a natural part of your elected Members’ diaries allowing critical discussion and timely decisions to be made collaboratively and transparently. Joint working with the IPC to improve the classification system has gathered pace; anti-doping measures have been stabilized and the new leadership for the next quadrennial confirmed to serve IBSA’s Sport Committees.

Looking ahead to 2025 there is much to anticipate. An Extraordinary IBSA General Assembly will take place, where we will consider proposals for the next phase of reforms as a consequence of the Review being undertaken. Your participation in the Review is vital for IBSA’s future direction of travel: I urge you all to give your contribution your full attention when requested.

We aim to intensify the activities of our Sport Committees, expand competitions to new regions, and recruit and inspire athletes from new countries. One the main policies to be enacted will be the organization of events for blind and visually impaired athletes in athletics and swimming: these athletes, and particularly international novices are very much a part of the IBSA family. IBSA can, and should be a key part of the international development pathway for those who aspire to a Paralympic medal.

As you would expect  there will be regularly updating, modernizing of the rules and regulations in sports competitions and greater emphasis  and resources will be assigned to IBSA’s recognition on social media, in press and broadcasting and advertising  creating the landscape for future sponsorship opportunities. A reformed classification management system with IPC is being considered. And as directed by IBSA’s Constitution the first financial audit for years will independently examine IBSA’s 2024 accounts and report on any risks and improvements needed for their future management.

Finally, I am pleased to reconfirm that Tashkent has emerged as the ‘preferred host city’ for the IBSA World Games 2027. This decision reflects our commitment to exploring new horizons and creating opportunities for our athletes worldwide.

As this IBSA chapter closes on 2024, I want to personally express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our shared mission. This last year has been one of many challenges but also one of significant achievement. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient IBSA that empowers athletes and inspires the world.

May I extend to you and your families in the IBSA family and our supporters all my very best wishes for the festive season and a Happy New Year.

Warm regards,

Ilgar Rahimov

IBSA President