IFMA as an IOC recognised organisation since its establishment in 1992, stands united against racism and discrimination, it is deeply rooted in the IFMA philosophy and integrated into the preamble of the IFMA constitution.
Respect is one of the five pillars of muaythai and from the moment you enter the IFMA family, there is a zero-tolerance policy for racial discrimination and harassment. Our athletes stand united and are the role models for the youth. Every stakeholder within the sport pyramid lives by this ideal. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to be involved in our family in whatever capacity they choose.
As per the Olympic Charter, Fundamental Principle 6:
“The enjoyment of the rights and freedoms set forth in this Olympic Charter shall be secured without discrimination of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.”
The IFMA World Championships are the purest example of unity in diversity, where the athletes live in harmony under one roof, sharing their meals, respecting one another and united under the same rights and rules competing on an equal field of play.
We encourage our athletes to express their views, and their unity towards these human rights. The IFMA Youth World Championships, the flag ship event on the IFMA annual calendar, is the living proof of the value brought to the community through sporting and cultural exchange, through an environment of respect, tolerance and understanding of one another’s differences.
Let us resonate with the words of the founder of the modern Olympic Games, Pierre De Coubertin who said:
“We shall not have peace until the prejudices that now separate the different races are outlived. To attain this end, what better means is there than to bring the youth of all countries periodically together for amicable trials of muscular strength and agility?”
The IFMA family is working on a united vision, opposing racism and social injustice. We will continue our efforts to promote equity and inclusion, and our hope and inspiration for the youth of the world and a better, brighter future.