The Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), under the leadership of Dr. Robin Mitchell, has consolidated its pivotal role in supporting National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and strengthening the Olympic Movement during 2024. Dr Mitchell gave a review of this very fruitful year especially with an eye on Paris 2024, where ANOC developed key projects that reflect its commitment to global sport.
“2024 was a very important year for the NOC family. Much of our work was focused on providing the Committees with the best possible support in the lead up to Paris 2024,” said Mitchell in a statement to ANOC’s official website. Among the main achievements was the ANOC Digital Accelerator Programme, which included workshops and seminars, as well as the first ANOC Digital Communication Seminar, providing NOCs with tools to maximize social media opportunities.
In addition, ANOC launched the Paris 2024 Social Media Handbook and collaborated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on the NOC Photo Programme Paris 2024, providing access to high-quality images to 37 NOCs. “All of this enabled the Committees to produce exceptional performance on their digital channels during the Games,” added the ANOC president.
STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF NOCs
Mitchell stressed the importance of empowering NOCs and their athletes, “Connecting and strengthening the voice of NOCs is central to ANOC’s vision; it is our reason for being.” NOCs not only prepare teams for the Olympic Games, but also promote the Olympic spirit at the national level.
“It is essential that NOCs are empowered and that their voice is heard at the highest levels of decision-making within the Olympic Movement,” he explained. ANOC acts as an intermediary to ensure that the interests of NOCs are reflected in the decisions that shape the future of world sport.
ANOC AWARDS AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY
During 2024, the ANOC General Assembly and ANOC Awards reached new heights of visibility. “The General Assembly is a vital forum for bringing the world’s NOCs together to discuss key issues and share best practices,” Mitchell noted. The Cascais edition evidenced the commitment of all participants to strengthen ANOC and build a more efficient future.
On the other hand, the ANOC Awards 2024 celebrated the achievements of Paris 2024. “The increased visibility of the event was a testament to the effort and incredible performances of the athletes this year,” Mitchell noted.
2025-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN WITH NOCs
ANOC is already working on the preparation of its strategic plan for the 2025-2028 period. “We want to listen to NOCs,” Mitchell said. To ensure that their needs are considered, a consultation process has been opened with an online questionnaire, in addition to the creation of a Working Group represented by all continental regions.
“This process will ensure that priorities and innovations fully reflect what NOCs need,” concluded the ANOC President, reaffirming the commitment to collaborative planning that will enable sustainable and effective development of the Olympic Movement.
