FIDE: CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

On July 20, the International Chess Federation (FIDE)—the organisation responsible for the promotion of chess worldwide—celebrated its 100th anniversary. Since 1966, this day has been recognised throughout the chess community by FIDE's decree.

Starting From India

The International Chess Federation is one of the oldest sports organisations on the planet. For instance, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) was established only in 1954, while FIDE was founded back in 1924.

The period of reforming professional chess rules, which originated in India, dates back to the 15th century. It was during this time that most of the rules of modern chess were established. By the 19th century, international tournaments for this ancient game, including world championships, had already begun to be held. Attempts to create an international chess organization were made starting in 1914. In Russia, efforts in this direction were unsuccessful. Notable chess players attempted to establish their own organization in Gothenburg in 1920 and again in the UK in 1922 but also faced failure. Ultimately, FIDE was founded on July 20, 1924, during the 8th Summer Olympic Games in Paris. The organization, initiated by France, the UK, the Netherlands, Argentina, Belgium, Hungary, Spain, Italy, and several other countries, currently comprises 191 members.

A New Strategy For A New Century

To mark FIDE's centennial, a ceremonial event was held in Paris. The president of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation and FIDE Vice President Mahir Mammadov also participated in the event. Both FIDE officials and stars of global chess spoke at the anniversary celebration. Discussions were held regarding future prospects for cooperation among organizations from various countries during this momentous day.

During this festive occasion, FIDE introduced a new strategy for the upcoming years. The International Chess Federation aims to engage as many people as possible with this intellectual game and to organize even more competitions. Although millions of people play chess around the world, FIDE will continue its efforts to promote the game while adhering to principles of inclusivity so that everyone has sufficient opportunities and resources to learn and enjoy it.

In many countries, chess has been integrated into educational systems. FIDE announced that it will need to develop additional educational materials and styles for nations where chess is taught as a subject and will work to integrate education with advanced scientific practices.

In line with ideas of gender and personal equality, chess organizations will strive to encourage more women to take up the game. At the same time, favourable conditions will be created for individuals with disabilities—regardless of age, abilities, or social status—to participate in professional tournaments.

The International Chess Federation also announced the establishment of a chess program for refugees. FIDE pledged to implement projects concerning individuals in places of incarceration as well. The highest chess body noted that negotiations with new sponsors will take place in the coming years to increase the prize fund for the world championship and other prestigious competitions.

The new strategy announced by FIDE is aimed at advancing this sport and including chess in the Olympic program. The International Olympic Committee recognized chess as a sport back in 1999. Since then, FIDE has made significant efforts to have chess included in the summer Olympic Games. Between 2004 and 2010, there was even discussion about non-competitive inclusion of chess in the winter Olympic Games. However, no positive decision has been reached.

Inadequate Treatment

FIDE regularly organises a grand competition known as the World Chess Olympiad among its members. Unlike the regular Olympics, this event embraces the unification of countries worldwide as its main motto. Therefore, all countries on the planet are eligible to participate.

Given that modern Olympic events include competitions such as skateboarding and breakdancing, the inadequate treatment of chess is surprising. Perhaps FIDE has already resigned itself to the idea that chess will not be included in the Olympics and has ceased its efforts in this direction. However, it is undeniable that inclusion could significantly boost the development of chess.

By the way, the World Chess Olympiad 2024 will take place in September in Hungary. Additionally, a match for the chess crown is scheduled for November of this year in Singapore.