IFMA

The Organisation

Strategy

Strategic Goals

IFMA’s Vision for an Empowered Future

At the core of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) lies a steadfast philosophy anchored in five essential pillars: Respect, Honour, Tradition, Excellence, and Fair Play. Our vision leverages the power of Muaythai to empower youth and make meaningful contributions toward a better world. To realize our objectives, we implement strategic action plans that seamlessly blend our rich heritage with future aspirations. We understand that success is achieved through incremental steps, embodying grace in both victory and defeat. By setting realistic goals within appropriate timeframes, we ensure that the journey toward excellence benefits the sport, the organization, and its practitioners alike.

Key Focus Areas

  1. Youth and Athlete-Centric Development

    Placing youth and athletes at the forefront, IFMA drives grassroots development that integrates our core values with today’s dynamic environment. Through cultural understanding, respect, and sustainable practices, we aim to cultivate a future where the next generation possesses a deeper and more developed appreciation of Muaythai. Our strategy includes:

    • Enhancing Youth Engagement: Developing programs that inspire and nurture young talent.
    • Leveraging Digital Media: Expanding Muaythai’s reach through innovative digital platforms.
    • Honoring Heritage: Celebrating Muaythai’s 1,000-year legacy while planning for the next millennium.

  2. Universality and Equality

    IFMA champions equality in sport and life, ensuring equal responsibilities and opportunities for all. Over the past decade, we have significantly advanced female participation, increasing the number of national teams with female athletes from 10 to over 60 by 2012. Our commitment extends to executive representation, aiming for 30-40% female participation on our Executive Board. With women now leading 2 out of 5 Continental Federation Presidents, IFMA continues to drive positive change in sports.

  3. Inclusivity and Diversity

    Committed to inclusivity, IFMA eliminates discrimination and barriers, providing equal access and resources for all aspiring athletes. Our policies support members from diverse cultural and racial backgrounds, as reflected in the growing number of national federations at the IFMA World Championships. Partnerships with UNESCO, UN Women, Generations for Peace, and Peace & Sport further our mission to unite through sports, fostering a global community dedicated to societal betterment.

  4. Upholding Fair Play

    Fair Play is a cornerstone of Muaythai, both in competition and beyond. IFMA is dedicated to combating doping through our Clean Sport Strategy, adhering to a zero-tolerance policy in collaboration with the IOC, WADA, and ITA. We also tackle match-fixing by enforcing strict ethical standards for referees, judges, and federation members. Our goal is to maintain the sport’s credibility by ensuring integrity and honesty at every level.

  5. Cultural Exchange and Education

    Muaythai is not just a combat sport but a vessel for cultural exchange and education. Inspired by Pierre de Coubertin’s Olympic ideals, IFMA balances academic and sporting pursuits through an educational system that integrates our five pillars with modern technology. Our platform includes modules on:

    • Anti-Doping
    • Athlete Support
    • Career Transition
    • Promoting Muaythai as an inclusive sport and art form for everyone

  6. Social and Community Development

    “Giving back” is embedded in our strategy from the outset. Initiatives like Muaythai Against Drugs and Sport is Your Gang have earned accolades, including the Spirit of Sport award in 2014, and are now active in over 50 countries. Future plans involve collaborations with organizations such as Peace and Sport, Generations for Peace, RightToPlay, and United Through Sports, as well as exploring partnerships with UNESCO and UN Women to amplify our social impact.

  7. Global Cooperation

    IFMA’s strategic plan includes collaboration, resource sharing, and knowledge exchange with Olympic-recognized organizations as a member of GAISF. We strive for the highest recognition by the IOC to access resources that will propel IFMA forward, ensuring sustained growth and excellence in Muaythai.

Olympic Values and Spirit

Embodying the Essence of the Olympic Movement

The Olympic values and spirit form the cornerstone of the global Olympic movement, guiding athletes, organizations, and nations toward fostering peace, unity, and excellence through sport. These values not only define the essence of the Olympic Games but also inspire sports organizations worldwide to uphold and promote similar principles.

Core Olympic Values

  1. Excellence

    • Striving for Personal and Collective Best: Encouraging athletes and organizations to push the boundaries of human potential through dedication and continuous improvement.
    • Commitment to Quality: Upholding high standards in training, competition, and organizational practices to achieve outstanding performance.

  2. Respect

    • Acknowledging Diversity: Valuing the dignity and rights of every individual, regardless of background, culture, or ability.
    • Fair Play: Promoting integrity and honesty in all aspects of sport, ensuring that competition is conducted ethically and justly.

  3. Friendship

    • Building Global Connections: Fostering lasting relationships and a sense of community among athletes, officials, and nations.
    • Collaboration and Mutual Support: Encouraging teamwork and solidarity both on and off the competitive stage.

  4. Courage

    • Facing Challenges Bravely: Demonstrating resilience and bravery in overcoming obstacles and adversity.
    • Sportsmanship: Embracing the spirit of fair competition, showing grace in both victory and defeat.

  5. Determination

    • Perseverance: Maintaining unwavering focus and effort toward long-term goals despite setbacks.
    • Sustained Commitment: Ensuring continuous progress and dedication to personal and organizational aspirations.

Olympic Spirit

The Olympic spirit encapsulates the principles of fair competition, mutual respect, and the unifying power of sport. It emphasizes the importance of participating for the love of the game, fostering personal growth, and contributing to the betterment of society. This spirit is reflected in the camaraderie among athletes, the celebration of diverse cultures, and the shared pursuit of excellence.

Integration with IFMA’s Vision

The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) aligns closely with the Olympic values and spirit, embedding these principles into its strategic goals and operational framework:

  • Excellence: IFMA promotes excellence by supporting athletes in their pursuit of peak performance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. This commitment ensures that Muaythai remains a competitive and respected sport on the global stage.

  • Respect: Through its emphasis on cultural understanding and inclusivity, IFMA ensures that respect is at the forefront of all interactions. This approach not only enhances the integrity of the sport but also builds bridges between diverse communities.

  • Friendship: IFMA fosters global connections by organizing international competitions and collaborating with organizations worldwide. These efforts enhance camaraderie and mutual support among athletes and member federations, strengthening the international Muaythai community.

  • Courage: By advocating for fair play and ethical standards, IFMA encourages athletes and officials to demonstrate integrity and bravery. Upholding these values ensures that Muaythai is conducted with honor and respect, reinforcing the sport’s credibility.

  • Determination: IFMA’s strategic planning and long-term vision reflect a commitment to overcoming challenges and achieving sustainable growth. This determination is evident in initiatives aimed at expanding Muaythai’s reach and enhancing its global presence.

IFMA’s Commitment to the Olympic Spirit

  • Promoting Peace and Unity: IFMA leverages Muaythai as a tool for social development, fostering peace and unity through sport. Programs like Muaythai Against Drugs and Sport is Your Gang exemplify this commitment by using sport to address societal issues and promote positive change.

  • Encouraging Participation: By prioritizing youth and athlete-centric development, IFMA ensures that the next generation is empowered to participate in Muaythai. This focus aligns with the Olympic spirit of encouraging widespread participation and inclusivity.

  • Fostering Educational Growth: IFMA integrates educational modules on anti-doping, athlete support, and career transition, ensuring that athletes are well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society beyond their sporting achievements.

  • Sustaining Ethical Standards: Upholding fair play and combating doping and match-fixing are central to maintaining the sport’s integrity. IFMA’s zero-tolerance policies and ethical guidelines ensure that Muaythai remains a credible and respected discipline.

IFMA’s Achievements

Milestones to Date

  • 1995: First inclusion in the 18th South-East Asian Games (SEA Games)
  • 1998: Demonstration sport in the Asian Games
  • 1999: Recognition by the Olympic Council of Asia
  • 2005: Full medal sport status in the 23rd SEA Games and inclusion in the Asian Indoor Games
  • 2006: Membership in GAISF (SportAccord)
  • 2008: Inclusion in the TAFISA Games
  • 2010:
    • Participation in the 1st World Combat Games
    • Establishment of Muaythai Fitness programs
    • Launch of educational initiatives
    • Adherence to the WADA anti-doping program
  • 2013: Membership in the International World Games Association
  • 2014:
    • Inclusion in the Asian Beach Games
    • Becoming a WADA Signatory
  • 2015:
    • First World University Muaythai Championships sanctioned by FISU
    • Recognition by FISU
  • 2016: Provisional Recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC)
  • 2017: Inclusion in the World Games
  • 2018:
    • Signing of a UNESCO MOU
    • Achieving a 50/50 male-to-female participation ratio at the elite level
  • 2019:
    • Unification with the World Muaythai Council (WMC)
    • Rebranding to the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA)
  • 2021: Full recognition by the IOC
  • 2023: Inclusion in the European Games
  • 2024: Side event at the Paris Olympics (Club France)

IFMA’s Future Aspirations

  • 2025: Inclusion in the Islamic Solidarity Games
  • 2026: Side event at the Youth Olympic Games
  • 2027:
    • Demonstration Program at the Esports Olympic
    • Inclusion in the African Games
    • Inclusion in the Pan American Games
  • 2028: Side event at the Los Angeles Olympics
  • 2030:
    • Inclusion in the Asian Games
    • Inclusion in the Youth Olympic Games
    • 2032  Olympic dream

Conclusion

By embracing the Olympic values and spirit, IFMA not only elevates Muaythai on the global stage but also contributes to the broader mission of the Olympic movement: using sport as a means to inspire, unite, and transform lives for the better. Through excellence, respect, friendship, courage, and determination, IFMA fosters a vibrant and inclusive Muaythai community that resonates with the timeless ideals of the Olympics.

Together, we strive to elevate Muaythai on the global stage, embodying the Olympic spirit of excellence, respect, and unity, and inspiring positive change across the world.

Download the PDF Version of the IFMA 2020-2024 Strategic Plan