The European Olympic Movement gathers this week in Malta for a meeting designed to strengthen cooperation among National Olympic Committees –NOCs– and reinforce the role of sport as a driver of social development. The 45th EOC Seminar and the Olympic Solidarity Forum stand out as a strategic platform for NOCs to share experiences, find common solutions, and advance the promotion of Olympic values.

In collaboration with Olympic Solidarity, the EOC has designed a renewed and interactive format that goes beyond traditional sessions. The aim is to create an environment that encourages open dialogue, joint reflection, and the exchange of practical knowledge, ensuring that each committee returns home with tools to improve governance, support athletes, and strengthen the principles of transparency in sport.

A space for knowledge sharing

The working programme will allow National Olympic Committees to connect, reflect, and reinforce their role as leaders in promoting the values of Olympism. This edition is designed to provide useful tools that enhance the capacity of NOCs to effectively support athletes and guarantee a solid and transparent governance framework.

Over the course of two days, six thematic workshops will be held, each aimed at delivering practical solutions to key issues: governance and management within the EOC, the use of artificial intelligence to enhance NOC operations, athlete integrity and career transition, athlete development and participation in EOC events, sustainability in sport, and digital communication and marketing strategies.

Giving athletes a voice

The sessions will address basic principles and potential improvements in good governance within the EOC, alongside the integration of artificial intelligence in NOC management. The athlete-focused workshops will reinforce their voice in the system, protect their integrity, and support them throughout their career transitions.

Another focus will be the development of athletes from grassroots to elite levels through EOC events, as well as the contribution of sport to building a healthier and more sustainable world. In parallel, the digital communications block will explore strategies to strengthen brand identity and connect with increasingly global and diverse audiences.

Recognising young talent

The programme will also feature a highlight on Thursday, 3 October, when the 10th Winter Piotr Nurowski Prize for Best European Young Athlete will be announced during the Gala Dinner. The award, voted on by participating NOCs, recognises emerging winter sports talent, with five finalists shortlisted in this edition.

A day before the official opening of the seminar and forum, EOC President Spyros Capralos will lead the EOC Executive Committee meeting in Malta, where strategic issues for the near future will be discussed. President Capralos highlighted the importance of the gathering: “The aim is to create the right environment for NOCs to interact openly, exchange experiences and return home with practical knowledge that benefits their daily work.”