SAVING LIVES
BUILDING CHAMPIONS
130+
Member
Federations
30M+
MEMBERS
GLOBALLY
100M+
VOLUNTEER
HOURS/YEAR
A SPORT THAT SAVES LIVES
ILS is an International Federation Officially Recognised by the International Olympic Committee
Partner & Affiliated Organisations
Our Dual Mission
Saving
Lives
Every day, we work toward a world free from drowning by advancing global water safety, strengthening lifesaving capability, and supporting communities most at risk. Guided by humanitarian values and evidence-based practice, we lead and collaborate worldwide to prevent tragedy before it happens.
Building
Champions
We develop athletes who possess courage, skill, and a commitment to protecting others. Through lifesaving sport, we nurture excellence, resilience, and teamwork – shaping competitors who inspire their communities and elevate the lifesaving movement worldwide.
Brisbane 2032 olympic bid
Why Lifesaving Belongs in The Olympic GAMES
Lifesaving is the only sport where the skills needed to win gold can also save lives. It’s a sport with purpose, powered by humanitarian impact and athletes who serve their communities every day.
Major Events
Life Saving World Championships 2026
Held every two years, The Lifesaving World Championships is the ultimate showcase of speed, skill, and courage – where elite lifesavers from around the globe compete in events inspired by real-world rescue scenarios. It’s not just a sporting spectacle; it’s a celebration of athleticism with purpose.
ILS together with Lifesaving South Africa is delighted to welcome the world to Port Elizabeth in Nelson Mandela Bay for the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 from 25 November – 13 December.
World Conference on Drowning Prevention
The World Conference on Drowning Prevention brings together global leaders, researchers, innovators, and frontline responders to tackle one of the world’s most overlooked public-health challenges. It’s a forum where evidence meets action – sharing breakthroughs, shaping policy, and driving life-saving strategies that protect communities everywhere.
Latest News
ILS Welcomes Surf Life Saving Bangladesh as New Associate Member
The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) is pleased to welcome Surf Life Saving Bangladesh (SLSB) as its newest Associate Member, recognizing the organization’s growing leadership in drowning prevention, lifesaving sport and beach safety across Bangladesh....
ILS joins WHO Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention
The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) has accepted an invitation from the World Health Organization (WHO) to join the WHO Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention. This step recognises and strengthens a longstanding collaboration between ILS and WHO,...
ILS Welcomes Surf Life Saving Bangladesh as New Associate Member
The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) is pleased to welcome Surf Life Saving Bangladesh (SLSB) as its newest Associate Member, recognizing the organization’s growing leadership in drowning prevention, lifesaving sport and beach safety across Bangladesh....
ILS joins WHO Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention
The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) has accepted an invitation from the World Health...
Guardians League set to supercharge surf racing across the globe
A new global surf racing competition – Guardians League - is bringing together elite athletes from...
Our Community at Work
Tasmania’s Lifesaving Community Empowers International Students Through Water Safety Education
Vietnamese, Singaporean and Australian lifesavers cooperate to promote lifesaving in Danang and South East Asia
Teaching survival, saving lives: Swim for Safety targets Sri Lankan children
Get Involved
Ready to turn your passion for water safety into real-world impact?
Explore our Member Federation page to find your local affiliated organisation and become part of a global network dedicated to saving lives. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, compete, train, or support your community, your journey starts with the organisation closest to you.