As 2024 draws to a close, I would like to reflect on some global trends I have observed and ISCA’s responses to them.

Lists are popular, especially at this time of year. However, I must emphasise, that this is not a scientifically validated top five, nor does it necessarily capture perspectives from all regions of the world. With those disclaimers – let’s begin.

1) Global Climate Change Discourse

With COP29  as the most visible example, political discourse on climate change continued in 2024. With escalating extreme weather events worldwide, the urgency of the climate agenda is undeniable. However, many believe that mitigation efforts still lack sufficient political weight and investment, and believe that the COP29 300 billion climate finance pledge by 2035 is a glass half-empty.

What ISCA has done

Climate change was a key topic at our MOVE Congress Latin America, held in the heart of “the lungs of the world” – Manaus, Amazonas – in partnership with the outstanding SESC Amazonas. Grassroots sport can play a vital role in raising awareness, reducing its own carbon emissions and adapting practices to the realities of a changing climate. ISCA has continued to implement the Future MOVE project and will soon launch a new initiative, GenGreen, which places young people at the forefront of discussions on grassroots sport and climate change.

2) Protracted War in Ukraine (and other global conflicts)

Following Russia’s 2022 invasion, 2024 saw continued hostilities in Ukraine. This conflict has become the most global since the Cold War, with support for Russia coming from North Korea, Iran, and China, while Western nations, the US, and allies such as South Korea are imposing sanctions and providing weapons and aid. Meanwhile, conflicts persist in other regions that are displacing millions of people including the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

What ISCA has done

ISCA has mobilised partners and resources to support many of the more than 5.8 million displaced Ukrainians in EU countries through initiatives like our Integration of Ukrainian Refugee Children though Sport programme. We are also expanding global refugee support through our Global Integration of Refugees Through Sport initiative.

3) AI and the Widening Digital Divide

Since ChatGPT launched in November 2022, the use of AI has become widespread in driving economic development and innovation. By 2024, AI tools had become embedded in everyday life, sparking debates about their risks and potential benefits. However, unequal access to these technologies has widened the digital divide and increased  global inequality.  At the same time, excessive use of digital tools, including social media, has contributed to rising mental health challenges among young people.

What ISCA has done

Recognising the growing popularity of gaming and esports among young people and adults worldwide, ISCA has launched its own grassroots esport project. Although it caused some  controversy when first launched, the initiative is now one of our success stories.  It was launched after we recognised the reality of gaming and esport being a preferred pastime and passion for huge groups of young people and adults across the world. We believe that civil society and grassroots sport organisations have a role to play by making gaming a more social, positive and healthy experience

Additionally, ISCA continues to host the biennial MOVE Congress  as an in-person event, reinforcing the value of face-to-face interaction. We brought the topic of AI onto the agenda of MOVE Congress  in 2023, and in 2025, the congress will return to Copenhagen, Denmark.

4) Global Politics: US-China Rivalry and Rising Populism

Global cooperation has been shaped by the growing rivalry between the US and China. Meanwhile, several democracies have seen a political turn to the right, with populist parties gaining prominence. According to research, populist policies may have triggered a reduction in civic spaces in some countries that has negatively impacted grassroots sport. In the European Union, which otherwise supports the values of civil society, there have also been clear examples of limitations being set for the NGO sector.

What ISCA has done

ISCA’s statutes firmly commit to equality, democracy, civil society, and international cooperation. We have collaborated with civil society institutions to advocate for the value of our sector globally. Programmes like Active Sister Schools bring leaders and participants together across borders and cultures. Our 300-person Moving People – Moving Europe event in Slovenia highlighted ISCA’s Human Right to MOVE concept, supporting a global rights-based approach.

5) Global Healthcare Challenges

Post-COVID-19, recovery in the grassroots sport sector has been uneven, leaving many without the mental, physical, and social benefits of active lifestyles. Globally, political focus has shifted to new infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and health emergency preparedness. However, prevention efforts and long-term health promotion remain neglected. Meanwhile, ageing populations and rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are driving healthcare costs at the same time that the EU announced 1 billion euros in cuts to its EU4Health programme.

What ISCA has done

ISCA continues to prioritise health as a driver for grassroots sport. We have secured operating grants in the health sector and developed resources such as an online course for our community. Programmes like Icehearts Europe and Move for Fun address health inequalities, while our NowWeMOVE campaigns advocate for healthy lifestyles as essential for disease prevention and well-being.

In conclusion, ISCA is not a party-political institution. However, we stand by firm values and strive to contribute to addressing society’s pressing challenges. While we cannot solve these issues alone, we aim to make a meaningful impact in collaboration with our members and broader community. This is our mission as we look ahead to 2025!