The FEI Hybrid General Assembly 2023 convened in Mexico City on November 21 and endorsed all proposed modifications to the FEI rules and regulations for 2024, which include various aspects, such as the FEI's Internal Regulations, General Regulations, Anti-Doping Rules for Human Athletes, Veterinary Regulations, and Jumping Rules. 69 national federations, just over the necessary quorum of 66, out of 136 were physically present, 27 others shared their votes online.
FEI's social media policy
Separate votes were conducted on the FEI's new social media policy and the expansion of available tools in Integrity/Ethics matters. The proposed social media policy garnered approval with 68 national federations in favor, 15 against, and three abstentions. The policy, initially targeted at athletes and officials, will now apply to a broader spectrum, including accredited persons, FEI representatives, organizers, support personnel, and persons responsible. This policy will be effective from January 1, 2024.
The expansion of tools in Integrity/Ethics matters faced opposition from some major national federations in the lead-up to the General Assembly. Despite this, the proposal was maintained with 70 national federations in favor, 14 against, and two abstaining.
A joint statement from European national federations expressed disagreement with the FEI Board's decision to lift protective measures regarding Russian and Belarusian athletes, horses, and officials. The statement emphasized that the situation in Ukraine had not changed, and the national federations could not support the return of Russian and Belarusian participants as neutrals.
FEI Sports Forum 2024
The FEI Hybrid General Assembly 2023 concluded with the announcement of the FEI Sports Forum 2024 dates in Lausanne on April 29 and 30. The FEI Hybrid General Assembly 2024 is scheduled for November 9 to 13 in Muscat. The agenda for the Sports Forum includes discussions on the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission report, sustainability, gender equality, preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, anti-doping rules, athletes' safeguarding, and a follow-up session on the cost of jumping events.
