LAUSANNE, Switzerland (November 2) -- United World Wrestling participated in the 13th International Federation (IF) Forum, which took place Oct. 28-30 in Lausanne, Switzerland. The annual gathering brings together worldwide sporting businesses leaders, presidents, secretary generals and stakeholders to discuss the future of the athletes and sports.

Nenad Lalovic, UWW President and IOC Executive Committee Member, attended the forum that focused on the athletes on a 360°C angle and discussed various topics related to the role and importance of the athletes.

After welcome remarks from IOC President Thomas Bach, State Councilor Philippe Leuba and GAISF Sport Accord Raffaele Chiulli, former sprinter Jeanette Kwakye talked about inspiring young athletes and keeping athletes at the front and center of sports governance.

Sessions varied from athletes' role within their organization during and after their careers, pace and speed of the new digital era, safety and well-being, as well as engagement and role within their organizations.

On the final day, UWW presented on the initiatives taken through the More than Medals Program during the Sport for Climate Action Framework organized by the IOC. 

UWW Development Director Deqa Niamkey presented the More than Medals program in favor of cadet athletes that benefit from a variety of educational and training programs, which included climate actions workshops for the first time.

The UWW Development Department is missioned to promote, advocate, communicate to all national federations and stakeholders on sport for climate change through a series of educational programs.

Julie Duffus of the IOC Sustainability Department discussed the roles each IF, NF and NOC can play to tackle growing issues as it affects the future of sports globally.

Lalovic also attended the IOC Fight Against Corruption session hosted by the IOC at the Olympic House in Lausanne. 

The IFSI ranged in discussions from the investigative procedures that accompany competition manipulation to the education of athletes and coaches.  A new publication titled "IOC-UNODC Reporting Mechanisms in Sport: A Practical Guide for Development and Implementation" was also launched during the IF Forum. The guide provides information on good practice for sports organizations with regard to receiving and handling reports of wrongdoing, including competition manipulation, harassment, doping and corruption.