· The FIVB Legal Commission has played a key role in the FIVB’s good governance transformation over the past 12 years.
· Oliveira highlights its impressive track record of 245 out of 246 proposals implemented and its commitment to maintaining the sport's integrity and transparency.
· The Commission's proactive approach involves annual meetings, specialised working groups and a continuous commitment to good governance.
FIVB.com recently sat down with Legal Commission President Rogerio Oliveira, who has headed up the body since 2021, to discuss the important work of the Commission that has propelled FIVB on its path to good governance.
Mission and impact of the Commission
Since 2012, under the leadership of FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° and with the Legal Commission’s expertise, the FIVB has undergone a good governance transformation. Oliveira has witnessed this evolution first hand, having served as a Commission member since 2012 and as its President since 2021.
Comprised of independent legal experts, the Commission has played a significant role in reviewing and suggesting improvements to the FIVB's legal framework, aligning it with the latest governance best practices.
In the words of Oliveira, the Commission “is more than just a regulatory body; it's the backbone of volleyball's integrity and governance. We delve into the heart of volleyball's regulatory framework, ensuring that our sport remains fair, transparent and ahead of the curve.”
Year-round approach and track record
While the Commission meets annually, Oliveira points out that these are just the tip of the iceberg in its year-round approach. “Throughout the year, our specialised working groups dissect key issues, ensuring that we are not just reactive but proactive.”
The FIVB Legal Commission held its annual meeting earlier this year
The Commission's effectiveness is underscored by its remarkable track record: of the 246 proposals put forward by the Commission, 245 have been seamlessly integrated into the FIVB’s framework between 2021-2024.
Read more: THE FIVB LEGAL COMMISSION REINFORCED ITS DEDICATION TO MAINTAINING THE FIVB’S PRINCIPLES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE, TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY
Ongoing commitment to good governance
The Commission’s tireless efforts and the FIVB’s dedication to good governance has led to significant advancements. Notably, in the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF) governance review, the FIVB has moved from group B to A2 since the initial 2016-2017 review, scoring between 150-170 points out of a possible 200.
Oliveira commented: “We are not just following best practices; we’re setting them. Our work in promoting transparency and ethical governance has placed volleyball at the forefront of sports integrity.” He also acknowledges the ongoing journey, “Good governance is an ongoing commitment and there are still improvements that can be made. We are continuously innovating, ensuring that volleyball not only meets but exceeds global governance standards.”
Oliveira's personal reflections
Reflecting on his personal journey, Oliveira said: “From the moment I graduated in law, I knew my passion lay at the intersection of legal practice and sports. Volleyball has been a part of my life, and serving as the President of the Legal Commission, alongside my highly experienced and equally as dedicated colleagues, is a great honour.”
He adds: “Looking ahead, our focus remains on embracing multidisciplinary approaches, enhancing collaboration across commissions, and tackling global challenges head-on.”
It is clear the FIVB Legal Commission is a dynamic force driving volleyball's good governance transformation alongside the FIVB. Oliveira's passion for the sport, combined with his legal acumen and that of his fellow Commission members and the FIVB Legal team, ensures that volleyball continues to thrive on a foundation of integrity, fairness and forward-thinking governance.