Decisions taken at the ISU Council meeting in Lausanne, alongside a new commitment to combat online abuse, demonstrate how the federation is seeking to embed sustainability, responsibility and long-term development across its activities.

Strengthening governance and integrity

At its October Council meeting, the ISU approved a revised Code of Ethics and updated Safeguarding Policy, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability and athlete protection.

The Council also reviewed progress made by its newly established independent Skating Integrity Unit Board and the Audit, Risk and Investment Committee.

The establishment of an independent Officials’ Evaluation Committee represents another important development, designed to ensure objective and neutral assessments of figure skating judges.

These reforms reflect growing recognition across international sport that effective governance requires more than policies – it demands independent oversight, accountability and consistent implementation.

Putting athlete welfare at the centre

The ISU has also strengthened its commitment to athlete protection by signing the United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) Charter and extending its Cyber Protection programme for another two years.

Founded by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in 2023, UAOA brings sporting organisations together to combat digital harassment and protect athletes.

ISU President Jae Youl Kim emphasised the importance of creating a safe sporting environment:

Evan Bates, Chair of the ISU Athletes’ Commission, welcomed the initiative:

“As an athlete, it removes so much pressure from our shoulders to have harmful social media comments moderated and monitored so we can prepare for competition in the best mental space.”

The initiative demonstrates how athlete welfare increasingly extends beyond physical safety to encompass mental health and digital protection.

Expanding participation and development

The Council approved the ISU Development Strategy 2026–2030, structured around three pillars: Grassroots, Elite and Foundation.

The strategy includes expanding figure skating in South America, supporting junior competitions and maintaining financial assistance for adult and masters skating.

The ISU also confirmed continued funding of US$85,000 to support Ukrainian skaters training and competing outside their home country.

These commitments demonstrate an ambition to make skating more accessible while supporting athletes facing significant challenges.

Progress towards the GSS Purpose Podiums

The ISU has not yet reached the Global Sustainable Sport SPI Purpose Podiums, but these developments represent positive steps towards achieving that recognition.

The SPI Index assesses organisations across Seven Sustainable Pillars of Sport, examining publicly available evidence of sustainability, purpose and impact.

The ISU’s recent initiatives particularly strengthen its activities across the People, Power and Participation pillars, while its developing sustainability strategy offers opportunities for progress across the wider framework.

The next challenge will be demonstrating how these commitments translate into measurable outcomes.

For the ISU, the direction is encouraging. By connecting stronger governance, athlete welfare and inclusive development with demonstrable impact, skating can continue its transformation towards becoming a more sustainable, purposeful and impactful sport.