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Russia – Founding Member of ICTSG Overview Russia joined UNESCO’s 4th Collective Consultation Meeting on Traditional Sports and Games (TSG) in Istanbul on 13–14 August 2018. Represented by Igor Pavlyuk, delegate of the Ministry of Sports, Russia signed/approved the charter/statutes, reaffirming its commitment to preserving traditional sports and cultural heritage. Delegation & Signing

Igor Pavlyuk – Ministry of Sports delegate

On behalf of Russia, they endorsed the ICTSG founding document under the auspices of the Russian Ministry of Education and supported by the Ministry of Sports. Geographic & Cultural Context Russia spans across Europe and Asia, encompassing vast landscapes and diverse ethnic traditions. From Siberia to the Caucasus, communities have preserved seasonal games, folk wrestling, and team ball sports—reflecting resilience, regional identity, and communal values in Russia’s sporting heritage. Traditional & Indigenous Sports of Russia

Lapta: A bat-and-ball folk game similar to baseball, played in community gatherings across Russia and Ukraine. Gus'-Hol’: Field-based folk sport combining running, chasing and tagging, rooted in Russian village life. Russian Folk Wrestling: Varied regional styles, involving grappling and strength tests, celebrated at cultural festivals. Ski-Racing Traditions: In northern regions, community ski and sled races serve both practical transport and traditional sports functions.

Russia’s Role in ICTSG Formation By signing the founding charter, Russia reaffirmed its status as a founding nation dedicated to preserving traditional games. Participation in UNESCO’s Istanbul meeting signaled its readiness to share cultural sports heritage and contribute to ICTSG’s global network. Weather & Climate Conditions Russia experiences a continental climate—harsh winters, warm summers. Outdoor traditional sports like lapta and folk wrestling are held in summer, while winter sled or ski races sustain heritage traditions. Seasonal variation fosters resilience and flexibility in regional sport culture. UN SDGs Alignment Russia’s engagement supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals:

SDG 3 – Good Health & Well‑Being: Fostering physical activity and fitness through folk games. SDG 4 – Quality Education: Integrating cultural sports into regional education—especially in rural areas. SDG 11 – Sustainable Communities: Preserving and strengthening regional identity through sports heritage. SDG 17 – Partnerships: Enhancing international cooperation in heritage sports with other ICTSG nations.

Historical Legacy & Cultural Vision Russia’s traditional sports—rooted in communal village life and seasonal rituals—have been passed down through folk festivals, gatherings, and informal education. Through ICTSG, Russia now has a structured platform to document, teach, and promote these sports internationally, linking local traditions to global heritage. Call to Action Join Russia in preserving its traditional sports. Volunteer, support local events, share folk games, and help these traditions thrive across generations. Get Involved   Benefits of Joining   Support ICTSG

About ICTSG: The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing traditional sports and games as powerful tools for education, peace, and sustainable development.

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