After more than a year with a dramatic global economic stagnation, it is clear that the economic structures and mechanisms in a globalized world are challenged. The economic structures, as central elements in a globalized world, have shown their limitations and weaknesses.
The result is economic stagnation, with direct effect on many sectors of our societies.
 
However, not all sectors are de-motivated and less active during this financial downturn.
The voluntary sector is not less active or less productive, compared to one year ago. The voluntary sector continues to produce and deliver ‘human capital’ locally, nationally and internationally.
The reason is clear!
 
The voluntary sector is not driven by financial motivation. The voluntary sector is driven by human motivation and ‘human powered’ commitments. And the motivation and human commitment in the civil society sector are intact, also in period of economic downturn.

In particular, the most widespread civil society sector - the ‘Sport for All’ sector - continues to mobilise millions of people, who are delivering a huge amount of “working hours” to society – free of charge. These volunteers motivate, mobilise and educate children, adolescent and adults in all ages to an active lifestyle - in spite of economic challenges.
 
The millions of volunteers contribute to active societies and to active citizenship, and it is obvious that the private and public investments in the ‘Sport for All’ sector are multiplied by the committed volunteers.

 

The International Sport and Culture Association General Assembly stresses the importance and value of public and private investment in the ‘Sport for All’ sector. Investment in active citizens, voluntary associations and in infrastructure for recreation and ‘Sport for All’ is a sustainable societal investment.
 
Investment in the “Sport for All” sector will result in more active citizens and it will support the release of the full potential of this sector's contribution to combat some of the major global societal challenges, such as sedentary lifestyles, physical inactivity and obesity.

On the occasion of the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) General Assembly 2009, the delegates, as representatives of ‘Sport for All’ organisations world-wide, request:

• Increased public and private investment in active citizens and civil society.

• Sustainable and long-term commitment and support to the “Sport for All” sector.

• Increased public and private investment in infrastructure for recreation and ‘Sport for All’.