International Volleyball Federation (FIVB)
History
The International Volleyball Federation, known by its French acronym FIVB, is the international governing body for the sports of indoor, beach and grass volleyball. It was founded in April 1947 in Paris, France, during the aftermath of World War II when representatives from 14 countries came together to establish the federation. The FIVB was initially responsible for the organization of volleyball's major international tournaments, notably the World Championship and the World Cup, which were first held in 1949 and 1965 respectively.
Structure and Governance
The FIVB is structured as an association and its supreme authority is the World Congress, an assembly made up of representatives from the FIVB's national federations. The World Congress meets every two years and is responsible for the election of the President and the Board of Administration. The FIVB's executive body is the Board of Administration, which is composed of the President, two Executive Vice-Presidents, twelve members elected by the World Congress, and the five continental confederation presidents.
Competitions
The FIVB organizes, governs and supervises all forms of volleyball and beach volleyball tournaments worldwide. This includes the World Championships, World Cup, Nations League, and the Olympics. The FIVB also oversees the organization of continental championships by its five continental confederations, namely the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC), African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB), European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA), and South American Volleyball Confederation (CSV).
Development and Promotion
The FIVB is committed to the development and promotion of volleyball and beach volleyball worldwide. It runs a number of development programs aimed at raising the standard of volleyball and beach volleyball around the world, particularly in countries where the sport is not well established. These programs include coaching courses, referee courses, and technical seminars. The FIVB also provides financial assistance to its member federations through its Development Fund.
Controversies
Like many international sports organizations, the FIVB has faced its share of controversies. These have ranged from allegations of corruption and mismanagement to issues related to the governance and administration of the sport. Despite these challenges, the FIVB has continued to work towards its mission of promoting volleyball and beach volleyball worldwide.