On 12 September, an extensive Overview of the current state and future perspectives on EU education, youth, and sport policy (the Study), requested by the European Parliament's Committee on Culture and Education (CULT), was published. This study aims to inform the incoming Members of the European Parliament about the portfolio they are working on in the Committee. The work process on the study included an extensive consultation process to which the EOC EU Office contributed. 

The findings indicate that EU sport policy faces several challenges, including athletes’ dual careers, uncertain professional prospects, and concerns related to doping. Moreover, significant broader issues include the rise of closed leagues, media rights disputes, match-fixing, and a decline in volunteers.  

To achieve the objectives of the EU Work Plan for Sport 2024-2027, the study advises CULT Committee members to engage more actively with stakeholders and civil society organisations, connect with their counterparts of other EU Institutions, for instance the European Commission’s Sport Unit in initiatives like the EU Sport Forum and advocate for increased funding. Looking ahead to 2024-2029, the Study recommends addressing the declining rates of volunteering in sport, revising and strengthening the European Parliament’s sport diplomacy strategy, and updating the 2008 EU physical activity guidelines.  

Please see the following for a comprehensive summary.