Members of the European Legal Commission (ELC) and the Legal Chamber recently convened in person at the European Volleyball headquarters in Luxembourg. These were the first face-to-face meetings for both bodies since the start of the 2024-2028 term.
The Legal Commission tackled various subjects aimed at enhancing and refining the CEV`s legal framework. Discussions were prepared by members working in dedicated groups prior to the main meeting.
A primary focus was the finalization of the CEV Good Governance Code. This code is intended to improve and protect good governance practices within European Volleyball, thereby elevating the standards currently observed by CEV governing bodies.
Furthermore, the ELC examined the necessary changes to the CEV legal framework resulting from a new law specific to non-profit organisations introduced in Luxembourg. The goal is to guarantee consistency and resolve any potential inconsistencies within a defined timeframe, while also using this chance to clarify other discrepancies in the legal structure. The completed proposal will be forwarded to the Working Group on Good Governance established by the CEV leadership.
Additionally, a review of the CEV Disciplinary Regulations was finished. This review aims to provide the decision-making body with increased flexibility and clarity in their rulings, and to make the process more transparent for all involved parties. Some aspects will require further discussion and adaptation in close cooperation with FIVB to improve and streamline disciplinary procedures, reducing processing time while fully safeguarding the rights of those involved.
The ELC also reviewed the process for creating and electing the new Athletes’ Commission. They will submit a proposal to the CEV Board of Administration to ensure this commission, representing players across Europe, can start its work by the end of 2025.
Finally, significant proposed changes to the CEV Competitions Regulations were discussed and sent to the Board for their approval.
The Legal Chamber, chaired by Laurent Moreuil, also held its first in-person meeting, welcoming a new member. This meeting provided an opportunity to address and discuss several crucial matters aimed at improving and developing the procedures for reviewing and processing financial disputes.
The meeting concentrated on key areas, such as a new system for assigning financial disputes specifically designed to accelerate the entire procedure. The discussion covered cases handled thus far and the practical challenges encountered by Legal Chamber members, with the aim of harmonizing CEV`s legal precedent. The conversation also touched upon the juridical aspects of the Legal Chamber`s role in both financial arbitration and disciplinary functions, with extensive discussions on disciplinary rules and procedures.
Furthermore, the Legal Chamber examined the proposals from the European Legal Commission (ELC) that were relevant to their activities, starting with the Good Governance Code. This code seeks to reinforce CEV`s commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical practices at all levels of European Volleyball. Proposed changes to the CEV Disciplinary Regulations, including amendments and new wording for articles, were also reviewed. These changes are intended to offer greater clarity and effectiveness, thereby ensuring fair play and maintaining the highest level of integrity within the sport.
Friday’s schedule included a joint meeting with members of the CEV Legal Chamber. During this session, proposals for the new CEV Good Governance Code and the Legal Chamber`s role in its implementation were reviewed. Agreement was reached on the final wording of the code and the procedures and responsibilities defined for the Legal Chamber in supporting CEV in upholding good governance standards.
Another significant topic was the proposed modifications to the CEV Disciplinary Regulations, as these changes directly impact the Legal Chamber`s function as the designated body for all disciplinary cases. The volume of financial disputes was also discussed, and proposals were made – which will be further discussed with FIVB – to standardize and adapt the provisions regarding financial disputes to speed up their resolution.
Consequently, a shared understanding of the new CEV Good Governance Code and proposals for changes to the CEV Disciplinary Regulations were agreed upon. These outcomes are expected to contribute to the development and improvement of the CEV legal framework, benefiting all stakeholders and European Volleyball as a whole.