Youth voices take centre stage in discussions on the future of sports governance

Youth participation in sport governance was one of the key themes of the 23rd International Congress of Panathlon International, held on 4–5 June 2026 in Ghent, Belgium.

Bringing together representatives from sport organisations, public institutions and international networks, the congress provided an important platform to discuss how governance structures in sport can become more inclusive, representative and responsive to the needs of younger generations.

The event opened with a keynote lecture by Dr. Thierry Zintz on the Present and Future of Sport Diplomacy, followed by two panel discussions focusing on politics, governance and sport diplomacy, and youth participation in sport governance: from principles to practice.

From participation in sport to participation in decision-making

One of the highlights of the congress was the panel dedicated to youth participation in sport governance, moderated by Fábio Figueiras. The discussion brought together Matilda Tommasi, President of Panathlon Junior Trieste–Muggia, Berber Swart, IOC Young Leader, and Tiago Guilherme, Managing Director of ENGSO Youth and partner in the YOULEAD project.

During the discussion, Tiago Guilherme challenged a common misconception about youth engagement in sport.

Rather than suggesting that young people are disengaged from sport, he argued that sport governance has often failed to engage young people in meaningful ways. Drawing on findings from the recent EUYOUSPORT survey, as well as ongoing research within the YOULEAD project, he highlighted the clear gap between young people’s active participation in sport and their limited representation in leadership and decision-making roles.

Creating meaningful opportunities for young leaders

The discussion reinforced several of the key principles that guide the YOULEAD project.

One of the main messages was that young people should be involved throughout the entire decision-making process, from identifying challenges and shaping policies to implementing and evaluating solutions. Meaningful participation cannot be limited to consultation alone—it requires young people to become genuine partners in governance.

A second important recommendation focused on the need to formally recognise youth participation within the governance structures of sports organisations. By embedding youth representation into organisational statutes and decision-making bodies, sports organisations can ensure that young voices become a permanent and valued part of governance rather than an occasional contribution.

Raising awareness of the YOULEAD project

The congress also provided an excellent opportunity to present the objectives and ongoing work of the YOULEAD project to a wider international audience.

Representatives of Panathlon International, sports organisations and institutional stakeholders, including the European Union and the Council of Europe, had the opportunity to learn more about the project’s research activities and its commitment to strengthening youth participation, promoting gender-balanced leadership and supporting more inclusive governance across the European sport sector.

As the project continues to develop its research findings and practical tools, events such as the Panathlon International Congress play an important role in encouraging dialogue, building partnerships and ensuring that the conversation around youth leadership in sport continues to grow.