TAFISA participated in the Council of Europe's Enlarged Partial Agreement on Sport (EPAS) flagship biennial event, the 2025 Diversity Conference, held on 21 October in Strasbourg at the Palais de l'Europe. The conference was conducted in a hybrid format, bringing together experts, policymakers, sports organizations, and civil society representatives both in person and online.
This year's conference focused on the theme "Sport and Intergenerational Challenges for Young People and Older Persons," examining how sport can serve as a powerful bridge between generations in an evolving demographic landscape. The event explored innovative approaches to promoting health, empowerment, and solidarity across all age groups through sport and physical activity.
TAFISA was represented at the conference by TAFISA Project Manager Osazemen Aghedo, who engaged with international stakeholders on issues central to TAFISA's mission of making sport accessible and beneficial for all people, regardless of age.
Against the backdrop of demographic shifts affecting societies worldwide, the conference tackled pressing issues, including social isolation among both youth and older adults, and age-friendly sports infrastructure development, youth disengagement from physical activity, digital divides affecting participation and inclusive program design across generations.
Participants examined how sport can provide effective solutions to these challenges while fostering greater understanding and cooperation between generations.
The EPAS Diversity Conference 2025 provided valuable opportunities for policy makers, sports organizations, grassroots practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders working at the intersection of sport, ageing, youth, and inclusion. The event aimed to inspire participants, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and equip attendees with concrete tools for advancing sport policies that benefit all generations.
The conference's focus on intergenerational challenges aligns closely with TAFISA's Mission 2030 themes, particularly Social Inclusion, Health and Wellbeing, and Community and Volunteerism. As demographic changes continue to reshape societies globally, sport's potential to connect generations, promote active lifestyles across the lifespan, and build stronger communities becomes increasingly vital.
TAFISA's Commitment to Intergenerational Sport
TAFISA's participation in the EPAS Diversity Conference reinforces the organization's commitment to promoting Sport for All across all age groups and life stages. Through initiatives, partnerships, and advocacy, TAFISA continues to champion inclusive sport policies and programs that recognize the unique needs and contributions of both young people and older adults while fostering meaningful connections between generations.
The insights and best practices shared at the conference will inform TAFISA's ongoing work in supporting member organizations to develop age-inclusive sport programs and create welcoming environments for participation across the lifespan.
