MIES (Switzerland) - In alignment with the strategic pillar to Empower National Federations and reflecting FIBA's commitment to fostering player empowerment, inclusivity and transparent governance within basketball, a new set of Guidelines for Establishing and Strengthening Players' Commissions has been created. Carefully crafted with the FIBA Players' Commission, the guidelines highlight how a Players' Commission can effectively amplify the voice of players, address their needs and ensure they are active in basketball governance to help shape the future of the sport. In adopting these guidelines, National Federations are being given the opportunity to further strengthen their respective basketball communities.
Anchored in the principles of inclusivity, transparency and player empowerment, the guidelines serve as a comprehensive resource and provide essential guidance and insight for all Federations. The Guidelines cover the full range of how to establish a Players' Commission, to enhancing those that already exist in order to get the most from them. The areas covered include:
Key functions of a Players' Commission
The differences from Player Unions
Establishing a Players' Commission
The Operational Framework
Communication Strategies for a Players' Commission
Potential topics that can be covered by a Players' Commission (eg. Educational opportunities, mentoring, player experience, professional pathways, promotion and CSR Activities, grassroots initiatives, player welfare).
FIBA Players' Commission Chair Dirk Nowitzki stated: "It's a privilege to introduce these guidelines. Recognizing basketball's global influence, they emphasize the pivotal role of player representation in governance and development. Having witnessed first-hand the transformative power of basketball, I acknowledge the indispensable contribution of players." He continued: "These guidelines reflect FIBA's dedication to empowering players and fostering a culture of inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration. Whether establishing a new Players' Commission or seeking to improve an existing one, these guidelines are designed to help National Federations fortify the foundation of basketball and amplify player voices in shaping its future." Meanwhile, FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis added: "As the global governing body of basketball, FIBA is dedicated to fostering an environment where players' voices are not only valued but essential to our shared vision for the sport. Players are at the heart of basketball's growth, and their perspectives shape the sport's future at every level. "These guidelines, developed for National Federations, ensure that players have a true seat at the table, offering a structured way to amplify their contributions and integrate their insights," concluded Zagklis. The Guidelines for Establishing and Strengthening Players' Commissions can be found here. They are also available in both French and Spanish. FIBA