A year ago, the coastal city of Cascais, Portugal, witnessed an unprecedented gathering that brought together more than a thousand representatives of the Olympic Movement. In October 2024, just two months after the success of the Paris Olympic Games, the XXVII ANOC General Assembly became a meeting point for National Olympic Committees, International Federations, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). During those days, the spirit of collaboration and dialogue was present in every conversation and decision, reflecting the strength of a global community united through sport.
In an atmosphere of reflection and purpose, the leaders of the Olympic Movement addressed the challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of Olympism. It was not just an administrative meeting but a celebration of the transformative power of sport, highlighted by the ANOC Awards, which honored the athletes and committees that inspired the world during Paris 2024.
A sustainable legacy for Cascais and the Olympic Movement
The impact of the General Assembly went far beyond the conference halls. Cascais and its region experienced a significant economic boost, with a direct return estimated at £2.47 million, demonstrating Portugal’s ability to host world-class international events. Hotels, restaurants, and small local businesses benefited from the presence of delegations from all corners of the globe, turning the gathering into a driver of development and cooperation.
However, beyond the economic impact, the commitment to sustainability set the tone for the event. ANOC and the Portuguese Olympic Committee (COP) planted 10,000 trees as part of the Portuguese Olympic Forest, offsetting carbon emissions and leaving a green legacy for the community. Additionally, collaborations with Refood Cascais and re.store fostered social projects that united refugees, inmates, and volunteers in a solidarity network that transformed food and textile surplus into new opportunities.
Looking ahead to Hong Kong
As ANOC recalls the spirit of unity experienced in Cascais, attention now turns to Hong Kong, China, where the XXVIII ANOC General Assembly will take place from December 7 to 10, 2026. There, the legacy of collaboration, sustainability, and community will continue to grow, reaffirming the mission of an Olympic Movement that keeps inspiring the world beyond sport.
