ISSA and World Sport for All Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Inclusive Sport and Grassroots Participation

The Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) and the International Sport for All Federation (FISpT), World Sport for All, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation in the promotion and development of Sport for All initiatives across ISSA member countries.

The agreement establishes a framework for joint action in grassroots sport, youth engagement, community development, education, social inclusion, and access to regular physical activity. It reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to use sport as a tool for health, development, solidarity, intercultural understanding, and community empowerment.

The Islamic Solidarity Sports Association is an independent international sports organization affiliated with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, ISSA brings together 57 member countries from the Islamic world and is responsible for organizing the Islamic Solidarity Games, one of the major multi-sport events within the OIC family.

Through its activities, ISSA seeks to strengthen solidarity and cooperation among its member countries, promote sporting excellence and participation, encourage youth development, and reinforce the social and cultural values associated with sport.

ISSA provides a platform for cooperation among national sports authorities, federations, and other relevant institutions across its membership. Its work extends beyond competition, supporting the broader contribution of sport to education, social cohesion, international understanding, and human development.

The partnership is intended to be action-oriented and focused on tangible benefits for communities. Particular attention will be given to initiatives that expand regular access to physical activity, support youth development, foster social inclusion, and strengthen the capacity of local organizations.

The partnership will promote values including solidarity, fair play, respect, inclusion, intercultural understanding, and the positive contribution of sport to society.

“The agreement reflects the role of sport not only as a field of competition, but also as a powerful instrument for youth development, health, education and solidarity.”

Marco Tomasini, World Sport for All CEO, added: “We are pleased to join forces with ISSA in support of inclusive and accessible sport. This cooperation will help strengthen grassroots participation, develop local capacity and create new opportunities for children, young people and communities to benefit from Sport for All.”