Governance
The ILS approaches governance through transparent, ethical, evidence‑based decision‑making that emphasises accountability, inclusivity, respectful collaboration, and timely resolution of issues to advance global drowning‑prevention efforts.
International Partnerships in Lifesaving and Water Safety
The International Life Saving Federation collaborates with respected international organisations across sport and humanitarian fields to strengthen global standards. Our partners support and reinforce our goals in lifesaving, water safety, drowning prevention, and the development of lifesaving sport.
International Olympic Committee
The ILS received recognition, pursuant to rule 29 of the Olympic Charter, on the occasion of the 105th session of the International Olympic Committee in Atlanta from 15 to 18 July 1996.
The World Health Organisation (WHO)
The ILS is recognised by the WHO as an International Non-Government Organisation.
The Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations (ARISF)
The ILS is a Full Member with voting rights in the ARISF. The ARISF is the world authority regrouping all IOC Recognised International Sports Federations.
The International World Games Association (IWGA)
The ILS is a Full Member with voting rights in the IWGA. Lifesaving Sport has been on the programme of the World Games since 1985. The World Games is a multi-sport Games comprising sports or events that are not included in the programme of the Summer or Winter Olympic Games.
The International Military Sports Council (CISM)
The ILS is recognised by the International Military Sports Council (CISM) and Lifesaving Sport is part of the programme of Military World Championships. Lifesaving Sport is also included in the Military World Games.
The International Masters Games Association (IMGA)
The ILS is a member of the International Masters Games Association (IMGA) and Lifesaving Sport is part of the programme of the World Masters Games.
Additionally, ILS shares MOUs with the following organizations:
Why this matters
As well as strengthening our impact in downing prevention and water safety, our partnerships reinforce our role in developing lifesaving sport globally.
How ILS is governed
Our Leadership Team
Graham
FORD AO
President
Australia – Surf
DR HARALD
VERVAECKE PHD
Secretary General
Belgium
SAMEH
EL SHAZLY
ILS Vice President / President for Africa
Egypt
Peter
Davis
ILS Vice-President / President for the Americas
United States – USLA
Peter
George AM
ILS Vice-President / President for Asia-Pacific
Australia – Surf
DR DIRK
BISSINGER PHD
ILS Vice-President / President for Europe
Germany – DLRG
Commissions and Committees
Drowning Prevention Commission
Leads global efforts to reduce drowning – particularly among children and high‑risk communities.
Chair: Justin Scarr – Royal Life Saving Society Australia
Rescue Commission
Works to improve global lifesaving and drowning‑prevention practice by developing evidence‑based standards, guiding education, medical and rescue operations, and supporting partnerships that strengthen the quality and consistency of lifesaving worldwide.
Chair: Adam Weir – Surf Life Saving Australia
This Commission operates through the following Committees: Rescue Operations Committee, Education Committee, Medical Committee
Sport Commission
Guides the development and delivery of lifesaving sport worldwide by supporting event standards, advising on sport‑related policy, and working with other ILS to issues regarding sport.
Chair: Dave Thompson AM – Surf Life Saving Australia
Business Commission
Supports the effective management of ILS by guiding financial oversight, revenue generation, marketing, and broader business development to strengthen the organization’s operations and events.
Acting Chair: Claire Ann Alfonso – Norwegian Lifesaving Society
The ILS has the following Standing Committees that are represented in the ILS Board of Directors: Chancellery, Membership Committee, Event Management Committee, Athletes Committee, Academy, Anti-Doping Committee
Key Documents & Policies
Constitution
Our founding document and guiding principles
Bylaws
Operational rules and procedures
Policies
Ethical standards for members and staff
Competition Rules
Official rules for life saving sport
Strategic Framework
Our vision for the next 5 years
MEETING MINUTES
Frameworks and standards that guide our work