ORGANISATION SPOTLIGHT: EUROPEAN ATHLETICS
European Athletics is the governing body of athletics in Europe. They represent 51 Member Federations and their remit includes staging major athletics sporting events including the biennial European Athletics Championships and European Athletics Indoor Championships, as well as age category championships (U-18, U-20, U-23), and the European Running Championships.
EUROPEAN ATHLETICS’ MISSION
“European Athletics envisions a thriving, inclusive, and innovative athletics community that inspires participation and excellence at every level across Europe. Since its foundation, the organisation has evolved from a competition-focused body into a strategic leader shaping the sport's future through development, diversity, and digital transformation.”
ATHLETICS FOR ALL
“One way that European Athletics is engaging with communities is through the Athletics for All programme, promoting healthy lifestyles and inclusive access to athletics across Europe. We focus on reaching people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities by improving access to sport, encouraging healthy diets, and raising awareness of the benefits of physical activity for mental health and well-being.
A central aim of the programme is to support initiatives that reach disadvantaged and underrepresented communities, ensuring that athletics becomes a tool for social inclusion as well as physical development.
We recognise that change must be local to be lasting, which is why we are working closely with our Member Federations and relying on some like the Netherlands (NED) and Great Britain (GBR), which are already leading impactful projects for people with disabilities. Their experience is helping to inspire and guide others across Europe.”
KNOWLEDGE SHARING
“We created a digital forum where federations and individuals can exchange ideas, tools, and success stories. We promote peer learning and visibility of inclusive practices at competitions, in clubs, and in public spaces through our Resource Centre on the EA eLearning platform.”
EXPECTED IMPACT
“Build a culture of inclusion through knowledge exchange, local leadership, and cross-border collaboration, using athletics as a vehicle for change.”
ADVICE FOR ORGANISATIONS
People with disabilities must be at the table, they know what works and what doesn’t.
Collaboration is key with Federations, Local governments, Private partners, when their values align.
Above all, listen to those most affected, real inclusion starts with listening.
EUROPEAN ATHLETICS MILESTONES
“If our focus currently is mostly on grassroots, seeing the integration of Para Athletics events at the European Athletics Indoor Championships in 2025 in Apeldoorn/NED was a great step. Para Sport is a driver for inclusion and adaptations. The thinking processes can be extended to other areas of the world of sports and beyond!”
