Is ICTSG Affiliated with UNESCO or Any Other International Organization? The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) often draws attention for its strong presence in the global dialogue on intangible cultural heritage and sport. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether ICTSG is directly affiliated with UNESCO or other international organizations. The answer lies in a clear understanding of ICTSG’s structure, independence, and strategic alignment with global values. 1. ICTSG’s Independent Status: ICTSG is an independent international organization, distinct from UNESCO and other UN-affiliated bodies. While it is not a subsidiary or internal arm of UNESCO. ICTSG:

Operates under guiding principles consistent with UNESCO’s values Supports and amplifies the goals of UNESCO’s cultural and educational charters Collaborates with UNESCO Member States and institutions in advocacy, education, and cultural preservation

This structure allows ICTSG the autonomy to drive initiatives globally while remaining aligned with international development frameworks. 2. Alignment with the UNESCO Charter of Physical Education and Sport: ICTSG’s mission echoes the vision set forth in the UNESCO International Charter of Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport. The Charter promotes:

Access to sport as a fundamental right Education through physical activities Preservation of indigenous and traditional physical culture

ICTSG builds upon these pillars to advocate for Traditional Sports and Games (TSGs) as living components of cultural and physical education. Its programs are crafted to enhance inclusion, peace, and sustainability—goals shared with UNESCO. 3. Relationship with Other International Frameworks: Beyond UNESCO, ICTSG aligns itself with multiple international principles, including:

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – especially Goal 3 (Good Health), Goal 4 (Quality Education), and Goal 11 (Sustainable Communities) UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003) MINEPS (International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport)

ICTSG’s work in promoting TSGs intersects with these efforts in policy-making, education, and community engagement. 4. Cooperation Without Formal Affiliation: ICTSG maintains close cooperation with UNESCO-affiliated actors, including:

UNESCO National Commissions Permanent Delegations to UNESCO NGOs and research institutes in the heritage and sports sectors

Despite this collaboration, ICTSG remains a separate and autonomous institution—free to shape its strategies, elect its leadership, and initiate projects that align with its unique mission and global vision. 5. Why Independence Matters: ICTSG’s independent status allows it to:

Be a neutral convener across political and regional divides Mobilize both governmental and civil society stakeholders Innovate beyond the constraints of traditional intergovernmental processes

This flexibility enhances its role in safeguarding endangered traditional games and engaging diverse communities. 6. ICTSG’s Recognition and Legitimacy: Although ICTSG is not an internal arm of UNESCO, it is internationally recognized as a legitimate voice for Traditional Sports and Games. Its:

Involvement in UNESCO-related conferences in the past. Policy engagement with member states Global network of cultural and academic institutions

...all contribute to its credibility and global mandate. 7. Engagement Opportunities with ICTSG: Governments, universities, NGOs, and communities interested in TSG preservation can engage with ICTSG through:

Collaborative research and publications Workshops and training initiatives Consultations on national TSG policies Participation in ICTSG forums and global events

To begin a partnership, contact the ICTSG Secretariat. The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) is not affiliated with UNESCO as an internal body, but it closely aligns its goals with international standards and charters. ICTSG’s role as an external, autonomous global institution strengthens its ability to innovate, adapt, and promote Traditional Sports and Games across regions and generations. Through its independence, ICTSG stands as a bridge between grassroots heritage and global policy, ensuring that the world's traditional sports continue to thrive. 🌐 Explore more at traditionalsportsgames.org