The International Special Sports Association (ISSA) is governed through a structured and transparent governance framework designed to ensure institutional integrity, accountability, and effective decision-making at all levels of the Association.

ISSA’s governance framework is established in accordance with its Statutes and is guided by recognised international principles of good governance in sport, including those of the Olympic Movement, independence of sport organisations, democratic representation, transparency, and respect for the autonomy of member bodies.

Principles of Good Governance

The governance of ISSA is founded upon the following core principles:

Transparency, ensuring that decision-making processes and institutional actions are conducted in a clear and open manner

Accountability, whereby governing bodies and office holders are responsible for their mandates and decisions

Democracy, through the participation of members in the General Assembly and the election of governing bodies

Integrity and Ethics, safeguarding fairness, impartiality, and institutional credibility

Separation of Powers, distinguishing strategic, supervisory, and executive responsibilities

These principles underpin all governance activities within ISSA.

Governance Bodies and Roles

ISSA’s governance framework operates through its statutory bodies, each with clearly defined roles and responsibilities:

The General Assembly, as the highest authority of the Association, exercises ultimate decision-making power

The Executive Board provides strategic leadership, policy oversight, and institutional direction

The President represents ISSA externally and oversees its strategic orientation

The Secretary General is responsible for the executive management and implementation of decisions

All governing bodies act within the scope of authority conferred by the ISSA Statutes.

Decision-Making and Oversight

Decision-making within ISSA follows established procedures designed to ensure fairness, due process, and institutional coherence. Collective decisions are taken by the competent governing bodies in accordance with defined quorum and voting requirements.

Oversight mechanisms are in place to monitor compliance with the ISSA Statutes, policies, and applicable regulations, thereby ensuring responsible stewardship of the Association.

Independence and Autonomy

ISSA operates as an independent international association and respects the autonomy of sport and its member organisations. Governance decisions are taken free from external influence, in line with recognised international standards and the principles of institutional neutrality and self-regulation.

Review and Continuous Improvement

The governance framework of ISSA is subject to periodic assessment and review to ensure alignment with evolving best practices in international sports governance. Amendments or enhancements are introduced through established statutory procedures, ensuring continuity, legal certainty, and institutional stability.