Elite athletes in ISSA member countries lack access to high-quality, culturally-aligned platforms where they can compete at international standards. Inadequate infrastructure, limited hosting capacity and the lack of coordinated, high-level competitions continue to hold back athletes’ performance and the global visibility of ISSA member countries.

ISSA member countries possess valuable intellectual capital in sport. Unlocking this potential calls for stronger collaboration and more coordinated efforts to advance research, innovation, and evidence-based development.

Current planning processes for international sports events provide limited consideration for the cultural needs of all athletes, and ISSA athletes often face unique challenges that hinder their ability to fulfil their potential. With few platforms to voice these ongoing issues, their needs remain underrepresented, limiting both participation and performance at the highest level.

Many ISSA member countries continue to face complex challenges that impact the continuity of sport. With limited opportunities for shared support and coordination, efforts remain dispersed and long-term solutions harder to sustain. Still, sport continues to serve as a unifying force for connection and strength across the ISSA community.