The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) is pleased to announce the restoration of membership for countries whose membership was suspended or terminated at the General Assembly in Jordan. This decision was made following a thorough legal review and consultations with IBSA’s legal advisors, taking into account German association law.

According to German law, the resolutions adopted at the General Assembly regarding the suspension or terminations of membership were deemed contestable or partially invalid. As a result, the IBSA Executive Board has decided that all such resolutions will be considered ineffective, and the membership of the affected countries will be restored as of January 1, 2025.

This decision reaffirms IBSA’s commitment to creating an inclusive and transparent environment for all members. Restored countries will once again be able to actively participate in IBSA competitions and contribute to the development of sports for blind and visually impaired athletes on the international stage.

“We are confident that the restoration of membership will not only strengthen IBSA’s network but also foster the further development of sports for the blind worldwide,” said Ilgar Rahimov, President of IBSA. “We look forward to working with our restored members and expanding IBSA’s membership across all regions of the world to advance our shared goal of empowering athletes and promoting equality in sport.”

As part of the transition period, affected countries have been informed and invited to update their contact information and resolve any issues related to membership obligations, including payment of dues for the current year (2025).

IBSA remains committed to the principles of fairness and equality and looks forward not only to the return of all members but also to the expansion of its membership across all regions of the world, continuing to promote the goals of the blind sports community.