News article
International Skating Union’s Vision 2030 places major focus on safeguarding
The International Skating Union’s (ISU) Vision 2030 strategic plan has committed to growing the sport, adapting to the changing sporting landscape, implementing more comprehensive sustainability practices and focusing on the wellbeing of athletes.
During the skating body’s recent congress, ISU President Jae Youl Kim discussed Vision 2030, with members voting in favour of the 2024-26 budget in support of the plan.
Goals include growing the sport to become more of a spectator experience and attract new, younger audiences; upgrading branding and broadcasting approaches; create more partnership opportunities for athletes and members; developing a digital ecosystem offering a tailored user experience with a focus on fan engagement; and revenue diversification.
The body will look into devising more extensive sustainable practices from event management to facility operations in accordance with the ISU Sustainability Strategy, as well as developing programmes for greater accessibility and inclusivity.
There is also a specific focus on safeguarding, development and unity in alignment with the ISU Safeguarding Policy, which is in place to protect and promote athletes’ physical and mental wellbeing on and off the ice.
This was a major topic of discussion at the recent congress, with two-time US champion and Olympic bronze medallist in Figure Skating Gracie Gold saying: “Mental health is as important as physical health and should be taken just as seriously. For the younger generation, being educated about mental health and how it could manifest, particularly the effects after you leave a sport, can be a very big thing.”
President Kim added: “This reaffirms the importance of safeguarding. We express our gratitude particularly to Gracie Gold for sharing her story and shining a light on this critical issue. Safeguarding is a key pillar of our ISU Vision 2030, and we are committed to further enhancing the measures in place across the sport to better protect and promote athletes’ physical and mental well-being. Together, we must do everything possible to make our sport safe, clean, fair and sustainable.”
Image: LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash