Croatian capital Zagreb hosted the FISU World Forum 2024 between August 27 and 31, having an exciting week of activities and meaningful discussions related to the importance of university sport and sport in general.

The 2024 FISU World Forum has brought together a vibrant community of students, athletes, and officials from 48 countries, representing national and continental university sport bodies. Over five days, participants have been immersed in discussions, workshops, and cultural experiences, fostering a global dialogue on sports, education, and exchange.

The opening was held on August 27 at the Kino Forum of the student dormitory Stjepan Radic in Zagreb. Representatives from the Croatian Academic Sports Federation (CASF), the City of Zagreb, and the International University Sports Federation (FISU) warmly welcomed over 250 attendees led by the FISU President Leonz Eder as well as CASF President and EUSA first Vice-president Haris Pavletic. The opening ceremony also showcased Croatian culture, featuring traditional dance performances.

Highlight of the 1st day was a panel discussion on sports diplomacy by talks from prominent figures, including Nikolina Brnjac, Croatian Member of the European Parliament and former Minister of Tourism and Sports; Martin Sinković, three-time Croatian Olympic gold medallist in rowing; Besim Aliti, Secretary General of the Kosovo Olympic Committee and former EUSA Sports manager; and Damjan Rudez, former Croatian basketball athlete and NBA player. Speakers discussed the role of sports diplomacy, the global impact of sports, and the importance of encouraging athletes to pursue education alongside their sports careers. 

The day was continued with inspiring speaker Daniela Heerdt, a renowned expert in sport and human rights who shared her vision of a world of responsible sport in and through education, followed by What’s Up FISU talk with FISU President and introduction of the student projects.

The FISU World Forum was also filled with powerful discussions and hands-on workshops. Participants explored a wide range of topics, from innovative ways sports can drive social change, significance of collaboration in shaping the future and sports events. Gender equality in sports also took center stage, with participants engaging in meaningful conversations about creating a more inclusive environment in sports.

A standout sessions on the second day were led by Verity Postlethwaite and Gavin Price, who delved into the intersection of sports and diplomacy, offering valuable insights on how sports can influence global relations. They shared a critical reflection on the opportunities and challenges of operationalizing sport for diplomatic goals with insights as well as top to bottom secrets for becoming a sports diplomat - all knowledge, skill and experience you should have.

Aziza Sbaitty, a record-breaking sprinter and the fastest woman in Lebanese history, shared her journey as a professional athlete speaking passionately about her efforts in community engagement and her vision for a more inclusive sports environment. Aziza's story of breaking records and overcoming challenges was a powerful source of inspiration for all present.

Participants also heard an inspiring story from Marina Draskovic who is a dedicated advocate for inclusive sports. She is the founder of the Fuji Judo which is a supportive environment where children can thrive, despite having cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, motor impairments, or autism spectrum disorders. Her panel underscored the importance of sports as a tool for both physical and psychological development, particularly for those with disabilities. Attendees also had the opportunity to try out adaptive judo inclusion training, truly learning about inclusivity and perseverance. 

Everyone was able to showcase their federations and home countries, displaying traditions through food, clothes, music, art and more at the traditional FISU Fair. It was a place for dance, laugh and joy where everybody made unforgettable connections.

Moreover, as the European Universities Rowing Championship was held in Zagreb at the same time, participants of both events were able to meet and additionally use the synergies of university sport.

During the Forum, participants also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Croatian culture through a special program in the city of Zagreb and a visit to Sljeme, the highest peak of Medvednica mountain. This day allowed attendees to experience the rich history and traditions of Croatia, strengthening the bonds between international participants through shared cultural experiences.

Last day of the event was reserved for the student ideas and projects linked to the topics discussed during the week. 12 international teams of students presented their ideas in front of the jury and other participants. The winning idea was the FISU Lounge project, a place for students, athletes, volunteers and all participants to meet and exchange, applicable to FISU competitions and educational events.

European University Sports Association (EUSA) was represented at the event by Executive Committee member and Chair of the Student Commission Klea Taipllari, Projects and Policy Manager Andrej Pisl and Communications Officer Hristina Hristova. All three actively contributed to the Forum; Ms Taipllari as one of the student group leaders, Ms Hristova presenting the European sport at a glance survey results and the Enhancing Sport Organisations and Management (ESOM) project, and Mr Pisl sharing the resources of the Inclusion in Sport (iSport) project – both co-funded by the European Union. The event itself was also the closing event of the ESOM project.

FISU World Forum 2024 highlighted the power of sports to unite people across borders and emphasized the importance of inclusivity, education, and perseverance in the world of sports.  In 2026, the FISU World Forum will take place in Ostersund, Sweden.

For more information, visit https://fisuforum2024.unisport.hr and www.fisu.net.