By Ryan Borg
We talk about the benefits of Sport Diplomacy but what are the benefits for Malta and Small States alike? Sport Diplomacy can serve as a first-step to something of more substance. Recognised as a soft-power, Sport Diplomacy should not be underestimated as it is usually seen as a positive action and holds a general “Good-Feel Factor”. In Malta, collaboration with other countries in the field of sport provides examples of good practice, knowledge and a possibility for future collaboration. Furthermore, and this should not be underestimated, it usually an provides an upgrade in standards and mentality. Athletes or coaches’ exchanges that derive through such bilateral have proven to have positive effects locally as they provided motivation and guidance to local athletes especially. Therefore, we can say that Sport Diplomacy, if nurtured, it may have opportunities for most Small States including Malta.
Following a yearlong discussion, The Authority for integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS) on the 20th October has sealed a Memorandum of Understanding with Sport Integrity Australia (SIA). One may misjudge this event but the fact that SIA is willing to partner AIMS has a strong message. SIA is considered a leader globally on Sport Integrity. By many they are considered as a Real Madrid of Sport Integrity. Their technology, processes and standards are high and envied by many around the world. Globally they are considered a benchmark and such partnership augurs well for AIMS as this will help AIMS get noticed internationally but more importantly, AIMS will have an opportunity to train its personnel and to improve its knowledge and network in the sector globally.
One shall add that such collaboration follow’s the Authority’s strategy to internationalise its network and collaboration. Earlier this year, AIMS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Antidoping Sverige (ADSE) where thanks to this, AIMS attained assistance and collaboration on its Anti-Doping operations which are top on its agenda.
Such collaborations are achieved with hard work and where parties share same values. In these cases, the common factors being, fighting corrupt practices in Sport.
The Authority for integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS) has been established in June 2021 through the Sport Integrity & Governance Act (Chapter 626 of the Laws of Malta). The Authority for integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS) is Malta’s Sport Regulatory Authority.
Ryan Borg is the Director – Strategy, International Relations and Support within the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS)
