The European Fair Play Movement visits CISM Headquarters to strengthen collaboration in promoting Fair Play and Peace through Sport

BRUSSELS (BEL) – On Friday, October 3, 2025, the International Military Sports Council (CISM) had the pleasure of welcoming Mr. Philippe Housiaux, President of the European Fair Play Movement (EFPM) and Honorary President of Panathlon Wallonie-Bruxelles, to its Headquarters in Brussels.

A former Belgian Olympian who proudly represented his country at the 1968 Munich Olympic Games, Mr. Housiaux was warmly received by CISM Secretary General, Navy Captain Roberto Recchia, together with members of the CISM Staff.

During the meeting, the CISM Secretary General presented the history, mission, and global activities of the organization, emphasizing its role in promoting Friendship through Sport among the Armed Forces of 142 Member Nations. Particular attention was given to CISM’s ongoing efforts in the field of Fair Play, ethics in sport, and the CISM Sport for Peace initiatives, which aim to use sport as a bridge for dialogue, understanding, and respect among nations.

The discussions focused on exploring avenues for closer cooperation between CISM and the European Fair Play Movement, including the potential establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to reinforce the promotion of Fair Play principles within CISM competitions and educational activities. Both organizations also considered joint initiatives that could highlight Fair Play stories, celebrate exemplary athletes, and foster ethical values within military sport worldwide.

“Fair Play has always been one of the fundamental values of CISM. It goes beyond the field of play, it embodies respect, solidarity, and integrity, which are at the very heart of our mission,” stated CISM Secretary General Navy Captain Roberto Recchia. “We are truly honored to collaborate with the European Fair Play Movement and to develop together new ways to inspire our athletes and nations to live these values every day.”

Mr. Philippe Housiaux, for his part, expressed his admiration for CISM’s global commitment to peace and mutual understanding through sport. “I was deeply impressed by the universality of CISM’s mission and its ability to unite the Armed Forces through sport and friendship,” he said. “The values of Fair Play are perfectly aligned with those of CISM, and I believe this partnership could become a powerful example of how sport can educate and bring people together.”

The meeting concluded with the shared intent to continue discussions toward a formal partnership and to create joint Fair Play initiatives that could be implemented during future CISM events and championships.

Through this encounter, both organizations reaffirmed that Fair Play is not merely a rule, it is a mindset, one that CISM and EFPM are committed to nurturing across generations of athletes, soldiers, and citizens worldwide.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)