The Għaqda Ġurnalisti Sport (GħĠS) once again took part in the annual congress of AIPS, the International Sports Press Association. This year’s 88th congress was held at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The Maltese delegation was made up of Secretary General Joanna Camilleri and President Antvin Monseigneur. Honorary President Sandro Micallef also attended as an observer.
The congress was an important one, as elections were held for key AIPS positions. Italian Gianni Merlo was re-elected as President for another four-year term after winning 76.85% of the vote, beating Hungary’s Zsuzsa Csisztu.
Elections also took place for AIPS Europe. Outgoing President Charles Camenzuli did not contest again, and French candidate Marc Ventouillac was elected, defeating Cyprus’ Erodotos Miltiadous.
A proud moment for Malta came when Charles Camenzuli was named an Honorary Member of AIPS, in recognition of his long service and contribution to international sports journalism.
During the congress, two important rule changes were approved. These include limiting the AIPS President to a maximum of two terms of four years each, and introducing a rule that candidates must not be older than 75 years on 1 January of the election year. It was also agreed that the President will serve without payment.
Delegates from 111 countries attended the congress, which also included discussions on the future of sports journalism. Topics included artificial intelligence, the rise of content creators, and the importance of transparency, integrity, and professionalism in the field.
Joanna Camilleri said the congress showed how sports journalism continues to evolve and how important it is for Malta to stay active and involved internationally.
The GħĠS said its participation reflects its commitment to remain active on the international stage and to support the development of sports journalism in Malta.
During the event, delegates also attended presentations at FIFA headquarters, the Olympic Museum, UEFA, IOC, FIG, and FIVB headquarters.
