Article 1 - Definition

1.1 

The World Judo Federation, hereinafter referred to as the "WJF", is a company

limited by guarantee and composed of National Judo Organizations acting as

members, officially affiliated through one of the five Continental Judo Institutions of

Africa, America, Asia, Europe and Oceania.

The liability of the National Judo Organizations as members is limited. Every National

Judo Organization of the company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the

company, in the event of the company being wound up while it is a member or within

one year afterwards, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the company contracted

before it ceases to be a member, and of the costs, charges and expenses of winding

up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such

amount as may be required not exceeding one hundred (100) American dollars.

1.2 

The WJF is a non-political and a non-profit organization. It shall not discriminate on

the grounds of race, religion, gender or politics. In the WJF Statutes, Bye-Laws, Rules

and Regulations, the masculine gender used in relation to any physical person shall,

unless there is a specific provision to the contrary, be understood as including the

feminine gender.

1.3 

The WJF recognizes Judo, as a system of physical and mental education created

by Jigoro Kano, which also exists as an Olympic Sport.

1.4 

All provisions of the WJF, Bye-Laws, Rules and other Regulations must be in

conformity with these statutes.

Article 02 - Structure

2.1 

The WJF is composed of National Organizations officially represented by the five

Continental Institutions within their respective zones of activities.

2.2 

The Continental Institutions and their affiliated National Organizations are required to have their statutes and regulations in agreement with those of the WJF.

2.3 

The five Continental Institutions collaborate closely amongst themselves and with the WJF. They shall communicate:

the agenda, the minutes and the decisions of their Ordinary and Extraordinary sessions of Congresses,

the program and results of their major judo events,

information on the general progress and the situation of judo in the

Organization composing each Continental Institution and, in general, all useful information.

Copies of all such communications shall be sent to the General Secretariat of the WJF. The Executive Committee, hereinafter referred to as the "EC", of the WJF shall publish periodical reports providing current information on the activities of the WJF and shall distribute these reports to all Member Organizations by all appropriate means available to it.

Bye- laws to Article 2.2

Notwithstanding the above, each Continental Institution may elect its own EC in its own way.

Bye- laws to Article 2.3

Copies of all such communications shall also be sent to the President of the WJF.

Article 03 - Affiliation

3.1 

Each country may be represented in its Continental Institution by only one

National Organization.

3.2 

If two or more National Organizations within a country claim representation, it will be given to the Organization which is highest sporting organization of that country. Failing this preference, it will be given to the Organization which is recognized by the Continental Institution.

    

3.3 

A National Organization becomes a provisional member of the WJF as soon as it is provisionally affiliated to its Continental Institution.

3.4 

A National Organization shall become an official member of the World Judo Federation at the next Congress of its Continental Institution, which ratifies its membership.

3.5 

In any case where a country does not fall visibly within the confines of one geographical Continental Institution or may be considered as being at the limit of the confines of the said geographical Continental Institution, the country concerned shall be affiliated with the Continental Institution as defined by the International Olympic Committee.

3.6 

Procedure of Affiliation

1.- Name of the National Organization and its office address.

2.- A List of Names and addresses of all its officers.

3.- A copy of the Statutes and By-laws of said National Organization.

4.- Pay the membership fee for the current year in which application is made for WJF.

5.- Registration of the organization's name in the country of origin.

Bye-Laws to Article 3

The WJF may recognize an event organized by an international organization which is formed by member National Organizations from at least two different Continental Institutions for the further promotion of judo in any defined part of the world or group and which adheres to the Statutes and Rules of the WJF.

The EC will make a decision after recognition of the event regarding the status of the organization which organizes the tournament.

Organizations which organize a recognized WJF event must provide a written report of their activities at the request of the EC. Upon review of the written report, the EC may decide to invite representatives from the organization to an EC Meeting or Congress at their expense. At the EC Meeting or Congress, the organization may be invited to speak on the written report, but will not be entitled to vote.

Article 04 - Aims

Among others, the WJF has the following aims:

a. 

To promote cordial and friendly relations between its members and to supervise judo activity throughout the world.

b. 

To protect the interest of judo throughout the world.

c. 

To organize, in collaboration with the five Continental Institutions, the WJF Events (at regular intervals) as well as the judo competitions for the Multidisciplinary Games. The right to organize the World Championships and international events will only be given to countries who are able to guarantee entry into their territory of all participants of Members Organizations wishing to participate.

d. 

To organize judo throughout the world and to develop and spread the practice of judo particularly amongst the youth.

e. 

To establish the world-wide regulations of judo.

f. 

To support and maintain the ideals and objectives of the movement.

Article 05 - 

Eligibility and Medical Codes

5.1 

To be eligible for participation in the Multidisciplinary Games, World Championships, Continental Championships, World Judo Competitions and Judo competitions held under the control or recognition of the WJF, a judoka must conform to the criteria set out in the rules concerning Eligibility Code, Nationality of Competitors, and Propaganda and Advertising of Rules of the WJF (Statutes, Sports and Organization Rules, Refereeing Rules).

5.2 

A competitor who participates in officially recognized WJF competitions is prohibited from bearing advertising on his or her judogi, subject to the exceptions stated in the WJF Rules.

5.3 

The World Judo Federation recognizes and shall comply with the Medical Code of the World Anti-doping Agency.

Bye-Laws to Article 5

All competitors in the Multidisciplinary Games, World Championships, Continental Championships, World Judo Competitions and Judo competitions held under the control or recognition of the WJF shall:

respect the spirit of fair-play and non-violence, and behave accordingly on and off the competition venue;

refrain from using substances and procedures prohibited by the Rules of the WADA and of the WJF;

respect and comply with all aspects the code WADA.

Article 06 - 

Headquarters 

and Official Languages

6.1 

The Headquarters of the WJF shall be situated in the town or place wherein the President resides. The WJF shall be incorporated in the city decided by the EC and approved by the Congress.

6.2 

The official languages of the WJF are English, Spanish and French. All official documents of the WJF must be published in the English and Spanish languages. Congresses, meetings and sessions must be held in these three languages. All official correspondence must be written in one of the official languages. Where a dispute arises in the interpretation of the two languages, the language that will prevail shall be the one in which the document was initially written.

6.3 

The WJF will accept Arabic as auxiliary language. The Congress must be simultaneously translated into English, French, Spanish and Arabic.

Bye-Law to Article 6: WJF Archive

1. Permanent Files - Minutes of EC Meeting, Congress and Commission Meetings, Congress Reports, WJF Dan Certificates, Winner Lists of Judo Events, Fighting Sheets, Referee Exam Results, etc.

Each EC Member shall send their original documents to the President' office, and the President shall make two Microfilm copies of these documents. The President shall keep one Microfilm copy, and send the other copy to the General Secretary. Afterwards, the original documents shall be sent to the General Secretary for safe-keeping.

2. Files Kept For 10 Years - All legal documents and contracts between the WJF and the third party. Each WJF EC member shall keep their own documents for the required ten years. Afterwards, the files can be disposed of permanently.

3. Files Kept For 3 Years - common correspondence documents Each WJF EC member shall keep their own documents and his predecessor for the required three years. Afterwards, the files can be disposed of permanently.

Each EC Member shall decide which documents to safe-guard and for what duration. After this has been completed, each EC Members shall make a list of these files in the form of a proposal at an EC Meeting. The EC Members shall be responsible for holding these documents during the required time period.

Article 07 - 

Governing Bodies

The Governing bodies of the WJF are: 

(a) The Congress

(b) The Executive Committee (EC

Article 08 - 

The Congress

8.1 The Congress is the sovereign authority of the WJF.

8.2 The Congress shall be held every two years in the place designated by the preceding Congress and shall be convened at the same time and in the same city as the World Championships. It shall always be taken into account that, whenever possible there shall be an equitable rotation amongst the different member of the Continental Institutions.

8.3 If the World Championships cannot be held one year, the Congress shall nevertheless take place, and if no country is able to undertake the responsibility of its organization, it shall be held in the city of the Headquarters of the WJF.

8.4 The Congress shall elect the EC (except for the WJF Vice-Presidents) and shall approve or disapprove its actions since the preceding Congress; approve the Statutes, the Regulations, and make such modifications as necessary; decide as final authority on all questions relative to the aims of the WJF; approve or reject the reports of the members of the EC; make all decisions on proposals submitted by member National Organizations or Continental Institutions; and deliberate on all other relevant questions.

8.5 The Congress may consider only those items which are included in the Agenda.

8.6 At least six months before the Congress, the General Secretary shall invite the Continental Institutions and the Member Organizations to submit to him items, which they wish to have included in the Agenda. Submissions must be received at least five months before the date fixed for the Congress. At least three months before the date fixed for the Congress, the General Secretary will send to the National Organizations, Continental Institutions and the EC Members, an invitation to attend the Congress, which is to be signed by the President or by the General Secretary, together with an Agenda formulated by the EC. The Agenda shall include the reports of the President, the Vice- Presidents, the General Secretary, the General Treasurer and the Technical Directors.

Bye-Law to Article 8.6

Whenever possible, an EC meeting shall be held between three to five months before the Congress for the purposes of reviewing the agendas and formulating an opinion to be presented at Congress.

8.7 The Agenda of the Congress shall include the following items: TECHNICAL MATTERS

election of stewards and scrutineers;

proposals for and review of the sports regulations; proposals for and review of refereeing rules; proposals for the education aspect of Judo;

a review of the technical and sports rules;

    

a review of the WJF calendar;

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

approval of the Minutes of the preceding Congress; reports of the President and the Vice-Presidents; 

reports of the General Secretary;

reports of the General Treasurer;

reports of the Sports Director;

reports of the Refereeing Director;

reports of the Education Director;

reports of the International Accounting firm (Auditing of the WJF); approval of the EC Activities since the last Congress;

election of new members to vacant positions on the EC;

a decision on the allocation of WJF Championships.

proposals for amendments to the WJF Statutes, Bye-Laws and Rules; and

proposals from the EC, Continental Institutions and National Organization Members

Bye-Laws to Article 8. 7

The order of the discussion among the items listed above will be in the same order listed in Article 8, paragraph 7. No business shall be transacted nor resolutions accepted for discussion at Congress other than as specified on the agenda relating thereto except as provided in Article 8 of the Statutes. Matters which the EC consider urgent and which have arisen too late for inclusion on the agenda may be brought before a Congress.

8.8 Each member National Organization may be represented at the Congress by two delegates who shall have the right to speak but only one shall have the right to vote.

8.9 Any member National Organization whose language is not one of the official languages being used may also have their own interpreter in attendance.

8.10 Each delegate must be in possession of credentials signed by the President of his National Organization unless the delegate is himself the President.

8.11 Each Continental Institution may be represented at the Congress by its EC whose members will have the right to speak but not to vote.

8.12 Observers may be invited to the Congress on the recommendations of the Continental Institution or EC. Observers shall have the right to speak at

              

Congress upon being formally invited and with the authorization of the Chairperson of the Congress.

8.13  The verification of credentials and proxies will be carried out by a Committee composed of the Vice-Presidents, the General Secretary and the General Treasurer prior to the commencement of the Congress. In the case of any dispute, the General Secretary shall submit the matter to the Congress.

8.14 The Congress shall be presided by the President of the WJF or in his absence by a Vice-President to be nominated by the EC.

Bye-Laws to Article 8. 14

During the election of the President or a non-confidence vote against the President, the President will surrender the chair to a "Chairperson Pro- Tem", who having been duly elected; will then conduct the said election or non confidence vote. Irrespective of the election result, the former President will resume the chair after the election and will preside over the Congress until its closure. In the case where a non-confidence vote against the President has been ratified, the `Chairperson Pro-Tem` will preside over the Congress until its closure. However, if the non- confidence vote is defeated the President will resume the chair and will preside over the Congress until its closure.

During the deliberation of the approval of the EC' Activities since the last Congress, the chairperson will surrender the chair to a "Chairperson Pro-Tem", who is to be selected from the members of the EC of the hosting countries, and who will then continue with the agenda.

8.15 The Chairperson of the Congress shall declare the official opening of the Congress when at least half of the Member National Organization are present or represented, and when at least three different Continental Intitutions representatives are present.

8.16 A National Organization may be represented by another National Organization from the same Continental Institution present at the Congress through a duly authorized proxy, but no National Organization shall have more than three votes including that of the country which it represents.

Bye-Laws to Article 8. 16

A duly authorized proxy shall be executed on a format prepared by the WJF General Secretary and approved by the EC. It shall require the signature of the National Organization. President signing the proxy and the seal of the said organization. A proxy by facsimile will be accepted. A proxy not meeting the above said requirements will not be accepted. Nevertheless, a proxy not on the WJF proxy form which satisfies the

remaining requirements, may be accepted by the Credential Committee under Article 8.13

8.17 Any person who is elected or appointed as a Member of the EC automatically surrenders their right to vote at Congress forthwith.

8.18 The Congress shall decide by a simple majority of the votes cast unless otherwise defined in the Statutes. A simple majority means half plus one of the Member National Organizations present at the Congress. For questions of particular importance or delicate matters or whenever one third of the Member National Organizations entitled to vote so demand, voting shall be conducted by secret ballot.

8.19 Voting for elections must be conducted by secret ballot unless there is only one candidate. If there is only one candidate nominated for a position, he shall be acclaimed, unless one third of the member National Organizations having voting rights request that a secret vote take place. Voting for elections shall be by successive elimination of candidates polling the least number of votes until only one candidate remains or until one candidate shall obtain more than 50% of the votes cast.

Bye-Laws to Article 8.19

1) The Congress shall elect stewards and scrutineers, chosen from amongst those delegates who are not nominated for office and whose national organizations did not present any candidate for one of the offices. The stewards and scrutineers will be in charge of all operations in connection with any voting matter, but not limited to, elections and motions, regardless of whether the voting procedure is conducted by secret ballot or not. The EC shall propose the number of stewards and scrutineers to be elected.

2) In the event of an election or vote, the Chairperson shall inform the Congress of the pending election, vote and the voting procedure.

3) In the event of an election, all issues in relation to the candidates will be consistent with the Statutes.

4) Should voting be required for more than one post at the Congress following the year of the Olympics, the following election order shall apply:

President;

Sports Director; and Refereeing Director;

   

Should voting be required for more than one post at the Congress the year preceding the Olympic Games the following election order shall apply:

General Secretary; General Treasurer; and Education Director.

5) In the event of an election, each candidate will be allowed five (5) minutes in which to give a presentation. The candidate may give his presentation verbally and/or through the use of video, slides or other communicative form. Should there be more than one candidate for a post, the speaking order shall be determined by alphabetical order based on the candidates' surnames, with the exception of the current office holder who shall to speak last if he should decide to run for re- election.

6) During an election, a minimum of two election booths and a maximum of three election booths shall be constructed for the purposes of voting. The voting booth shall be covered on all four sides by a curtain so that the voter is provided with absolute privacy. No advertising or other similar posting shall be allowed to be posted inside or in the proximate vicinity of the voting booth. During an election, the steward shall post a list, which contains the surnames of each of the candidates of the relevant post, in the voting booth.

7) Voting Procedure

a) During an election or vote, the General Secretary shall prepare a list of countries which contains the names of the designated delegates who shall vote for the respective National Organization and shall distribute one copy of this list to each Steward and Scrutineer. Each Steward and Scrutineer shall use this official list for the purposes of validating the designated delegates during an election or vote.

b) During an election or vote, the General Secretary shall call the respective National Organization alphabetical order according to their respective Continental institution. The designated delegate of the National Organization or the designated official in possession of a verified proxy shall indicate his presence to cast a vote.

c) An abstention shall be recorded on behalf of a National Organization when its delegate has been duly called to vote on three separate occasions at one minute intervals and did not respond.

d) With the assistance of the General Secretary of the concerned Continental Institution, the Steward shall verify that the individual, who has approached the voting booth, is in fact the designated delegate possessing the authority to cast a vote.

e) The Scrutineers shall secure the voting booths to ensure the integrity of the voting process.

f) The WJF shall provide different colored ballot forms, which corresponds to the number of elections required, to the designated delegate of each National Organization.

g) During an election, the designated delegate shall receive a colored ballot form on which to record his vote. Once the designated delegate has written the surname of the individual that he has decided to select, he shall cast the ballot into the appropriate ballot box while in the presence of a scrutineer

h) In the event of a vote, the designated delegate shall write either "yes" on the ballot form, which represents his approval of the issue being voted upon, or "no" on the ballot form, which represents his disapproval of the issue being voted upon.

8) Official Counting of Votes Procedure

a) Upon completion of the voting process, the Chairperson shall officially announce that the polls have been closed and ask the Steward to begin the official counting of the votes.

b) The Steward(s), with the assistance of the Scrutineers, shall take the ballot boxes, and count the votes in camera.

c) In the event of an election, the ballots shall be separated by each candidate's surname. In the event of a vote, the "yes" or "no" ballots shall be divided accordingly. Blank ballots or abstentions shall also be divided separately.

d) If a ballot is deemed to be illegible or spoiled by a majority vote of the Stewards and Scrutineers, it shall be deemed blank.

e) Upon completion of the ballot counting process, the each Steward and scrutineer shall officially record the counting of the ballots with verification by their respective signatures. Once this procedure has been officially completed, the Steward(s) shall report the results to the Chairman, who will in turn announce the results to the Congress. Should there be no objections from the Congress immediately following the announcement of the results, the Steward(s) shall immediately destroy the used and unused election ballots.

f) In the event of an objection to the validity of an election, the objection shall be filed through the EC and reported forthwith. Should the objection warrant merit beyond a reasonable doubt based upon the EC' investigation of the objection, the objection shall be reported to the Congress where a re-election, re-examination, re-vote, or any other action as deemed necessary by the EC shall occur.

8.20 In the event of an equal vote during an election, a second and final vote shall be conducted. In the event that the second and final vote also produces an equal vote, the election result shall be determined by a draw conducted by the Chairperson. In all other matters, an equal number of votes be cast, will result in maintaining the status quo.

8.21 The General Secretary shall provide the key points of the Congress Minutes immediately upon the completion of Congress.

Bye-Laws to Article 8.21

1) Key Point Information

Key point information relating to the Congress will be compiled by the General Secretary and approved by the EC before the end of the World Championships. The key point information shall be distributed by the Presidents of the Continental Institution to their affiliated National Organizations upon its approval by the EC.

2) Draft Minutes

Each EC member shall receive a draft copy of the Congress Draft Minutes within 6 months after the Congress. The EC will review the Draft Minutes at the first EC Meeting held after the said 6 months and approve them. The revised Minutes shall be sent to each Continental Institution President for distribution.

8.22 The Chairperson of the Congress shall have the right to cease any disruptive conduct that obstructs the efficient administration of the Congress. The method of discussion at the Congress is defined in the Bye-Laws.

Article 09 - Extraordinary Congress

9.1 If at least one third of the member National Organizations, this one third being comprised of Organizations from at least three different Continental Institutions, so requests, or if the EC considers it necessary, an Extraordinary Congress may be convened by the President and the General Secretary in a town or place chosen by the EC.

9.2 In such a case, the Extraordinary Congress must be held in the three months following the date on which the request sent by registered mail and containing the reasons for the meeting is received by the General Secretariat of the WJF.

9.3 The Agenda for the meeting must indicate the reasons for the Congress and only those items on the agenda shall be discussed.

9.4 The discussions and decisions made at an Extraordinary Congress shall have equal validity as those made at an Ordinary Congress. In addition, the discussions and decisions made at an Extraordinary Congress must comply with the same conditions as those required for an Ordinary Congress.

Article 10 - 

Executive Committee 

10. 1 The EC is composed of:

the President;

five Vice-Presidents, one from each Continental Institution; the General Secretary;

the General Treasurer;

the Sport Director;

the Refereeing Director;

and the Education Director.

10.1.1 The EC shall be chaired by the President. In the case of his absence, the EC shall elect a chairperson pro-tem from the Vice- Presidents, who shall normally be the Vice-President of the Continental Institution hosting the event.

Bye-Laws to Article 10.1.1

The EC meetings are presided over by the President or by an EC member according to the Statutes. (Article 10.11)

The EC members assist the President in this activity and are responsible for the accomplishment of their special field of activities and for those tasks arising from the decisions made by the EC.

10.2 Nominations for any of the elected posts on the EC must be sent to the General Secretary duly signed by the President of the Member National Organization from which the nominee is from, at least five months prior to the date fixed for the Congress. Any member of the EC seeking re-election does not require the confirmation of his National Organization.

The General Secretary will circulate these nominations together with the invitation and Congress documents at least three months prior to the date fixed for the Congress, in order to allow all Member Organization to inform their

       

Congress delegates of their positions. Nominations will not be accepted from the floor of the Congress.

Bye-Laws to Article 10, Paragraph 2

The General Secretary will ask for the personal resume of the nominee and his program for the elected post. This information will be distributed, together with the Congress Agenda, to all the Member National Organizations.

10.3 In any case the Executive Committee reviews the postulations and decides to present/display them or not to the Ordinary Congress.

10.4 The members of the EC with the exception of the Vice Presidents shall hold office for at least four years in the position to which they were elected by the Congress. At the expiration of their term, Committee members may offer themselves for re-election.

10.5 No person may hold more than one post on the WJF EC. No member National Organization shall have more than one member, elected by the Congress, on the WJF EC.

10.6 The elections for the posts of the President, the Sports Director and the Refereeing Director for a four-year term of office shall be conducted at the Congress following the year of the Olympics. The elections for the posts of the General Secretary, the General Treasurer and the Education Director for a four- year term of office shall be conducted at the Congress held approximately two years after the Congress at which the President, Sports Director, and Refereeing Director are elected.

10.7 The term of members of the EC of the WJF shall automatically extend up to the time of the next Congress if the term expires before the meeting of such Congress. If because of a resignation or for any other reason a post other than that of a Vice-President, becomes vacant on the EC, the EC shall appoint an interim EC Member who shall serve until the next Congress, where the Congress will elect a candidate to fill the vacant position. The elected candidate's term in office will be in accordance with Article 10.5.

10.8 As a general rule, the EC shall meet at least once per year and particularly during the days preceding a Congress. A meeting of the EC may, however, be convened by the President, each time he judges it necessary or by the request of a majority of the members on the EC.

If a Vice President cannot attend an EC Meeting, he must either nominate another EC member from his Continental Institution as his replacement or give his proxy to another WJF EC member.

If any other elected member of the EC (i.e. this does not include the Vice- Presidents) cannot attend the EC meeting for a valid reason, he may give his proxy to another WJF EC member, but cannot send someone as his replacement.

Bye-Laws to Article 10. 8

Members of the EC are expected to attend all EC meetings. Should an emergency arise, or for reasons of illness, or for any other valid reason, which does not permit a member to attend an EC meeting, he shall so notify the President and the General Secretary in writing, where practicable.

If an EC member cannot attend an EC meeting, the General Secretary is obliged to inform him within 4 weeks of the most important decisions made at that meeting.

All activities of the EC are fixed in an annual calendar, i.e. dates and places of the EC meetings; dates and places of the WJF activities indicating the EC members or Commission members who have to attend; dates and places of the events (WJF, national or international organizations) which have to be attended by WJF representatives.

Duration and main contents of the meeting are fixed in the approved annual calendar. An agenda must be established for each meeting. The EC members shall submit to the General Secretary the items they wish to have included in the agenda four(4) weeks prior to the date fixed for the meeting. The General Secretary prepares the agenda, advises the President and then circulates the invitations together with the agenda and the necessary working papers two(2) weeks prior to the meeting. Should an urgent matter arise, it may be added to the agenda and discussed in the EC Meeting with a majority of the EC

A time-table must be fixed and agreed upon before an Ordinary EC meeting.

10.9 When for any reason whatsoever an ordinary EC meeting cannot take place, urgent decisions may be taken following an exchange of any form of written communication. In the case where a decision has been reached by written communication, the validity of it is the same as one made at an ordinary EC meeting.

Bye-Law to Article 10. 9

The tasks and the working method of the EC are based on the Statutes of the WJF Art. 10. All decisions regarding the activities of the WJF are made by the EC. In case of emergency, consultation has to be made by

telex or telephone or cable with the members of the EC. On the basis of the Statutes and Congress decisions, the EC directs the WJF activities between each Congress. The EC shall render for the benefit of the forthcoming Congress, a report of its activities.

10.10 The EC shall make all decisions regarding the activities of the WJF between each Congress and shall approve or disapprove any urgent decisions undertaken by the President

Bye-Laws to Article 10. 10

All important questions are treated within the EC by means of Working papers. Commissions and/or temporary Working Groups can assist in elaborating these documents. The individual responsibilities of each Commission are determined by the field of activities of the EC member or are delegated to one member by the President.

10.11 The EC shall make all its decisions by simple majority. Only in the event of a tie shall the President or the duly appointed chairperson have a deciding vote.

10.12 In order to be considered valid, any meeting of the EC must include at least half of it members of which three must be Vice-Presidents, and be presided over by the President, or in the event of his absence, one of the Vice- Presidents.

10.13 To be assisted in their work, the EC may form commissions and/or working groups. Their members must be appointed and approved by the EC.

Bye-Laws to Article 10.13 The EC may charge the Commissioners and Temporary Working Groups with special tasks and controls their accomplishment.

10.14 All members of the EC are accountable to the EC meeting and the Congress.

10.15 In connection with EC Meetings, the General Secretary shall provide to each EC Member, prior to their departure, Key Point Information of the Minutes of the meeting.

Bye-Laws to Article 10.15

1) Key Point Information

Before departing from the EC meeting, the General Secretary shall produce Key Point Information, which includes the finalized main decisions made during the EC meeting. Any objections to the Key Point

Information must be sent to the General Secretary within seven days of the EC Meeting.

The Continental Institutions shall distribute the Key Point Information to its respective member National Organizations, after they have been approved by the EC.

2) Draft Minutes

The Draft Minutes of EC Meetings shall be sent to each EC member before the next EC meeting, and then approved by the EC at the following EC meeting. The finalized Minutes shall be distributed to each Member National Organization and Continental Institutions after the EC meeting has been closed.

10.16 To request a non confidence vote against a member or members of the EC, a minimum of one-third of the member National Organizations entitled to vote from 3 different continents are required, which is to be forwarded to the General Secretary. The General Secretary will forthwith submit the said request for a non confidence vote to the EC. Thereupon the voting shall be conducted during the next Congress. A minimum of two thirds majority is required to approve the non-confidence. In the case where the non-confidence vote is passed by the Congress, the said EC member will lose his post forthwith and the EC may appoint an interim EC member as his replacement.

Article 11 - President

11.1 The President is elected by the Congress. He directs the WJF and

represents it before third parties.

11.2 In the case of an absence of the President during his term in office by reason of resignation or for any other reason, the Presidency shall be assumed by a Vice-President of the WJF that is to be nominated by the EC. The interim President shall serve until the next Congress where the Congress will elect a new president in accordance with Article 10.6.

Bye-Laws to Article 11

The President must comply with the WJF Statutes, Rules and decisions. The President chairs Congresses and EC meetings. The President has the right to entrust EC members and Commissions to solve specific problems and to appoint, with the approval of the EC, temporary Working Groups.

Article 12 - Vice-Presidents

12.1 The Vice-Presidents shall be the Presidents elected by the Congress of their Continental Institution, one Vice-President per Continental Institution.

12.2 The Vice President shall represent their Continental Institution, assist the President and replace him whenever necessary.

Bye-Laws to Article 12

The activities of the Vice Presidents are based on the Statutes, Rules and decisions of the World Judo Federation for the adherence of which they work in their Continental Institutions.

The Vice Presidents support the activities of the EC and assist the President in his work. They represent the World Judo Federation in their respective Continental Institutions.

The Vice Presidents shall inform the EC on their activities in their respective Continental Institutions and render, for the benefit of the Congress, a written report on the development of Judo in their respective Continental Institutions.

Article 13 - General Secretary

13.1 The General Secretary is elected by the Congress. He is responsible for the work and administration of the Secretariat and the relations with the Continental Institutions and the National Organization.

13.2 The Secretariat of the WJF is located in the city or place wherein the General Secretary resides, unless otherwise decided by Congress.

13.3 On the proposal of the General Secretary the EC may appoint Administrative Secretaries who shall not have the right to vote nor the right to participate in deliberations. Administrative Secretaries shall reside in the same city or place wherein the General Secretary is located. Administrative Secretaries shall attend meetings and/or events of the WJF as required.

Bye-Laws to Article 13

The General Secretary is responsible for the administrative work of the WJF in accordance with the Statutes and Rules and for the adherence to the decisions of the EC and of the Congress.

The General Secretary directs the WJF Secretariat. He holds close contact with the EC members of the WJF, the Chairpersons of the Commissions, the General Secretaries of the Continental Institutions and with the Member National Organizations.

The General Secretary is responsible for the information and the correspondence within the World Judo Federation and, in agreement with the President, towards third parties.

He is responsible for the organization of Congresses and EC meetings. The General Secretary shall establish the agendas for those meetings and compile the necessary documents which are circulated by him or her together with the invitation.

The General Secretary sends the invitations and regulations for the World Championships and other important events. In cooperation with the Multidisciplinary Organizations, he or she informs the National Organizations about the regulations and technical details of the world competitions. The General Secretary elaborates the minutes of Congress and EC meetings and Key Point Information.

Article 14 - General Treasurer

14.1 The General Treasurer is elected by the Congress. He is responsible for the Treasury of the WJF and shall be responsible for keeping regular accounts. He shall represent the WJF before third parties, as directed by the President.

14.2 All income and expenses must be included in the budget as approved by the EC. Any expenses not included in the budget or approved by the EC before being incurred, requires prior authorization by the President and the General Treasurer.

14.3 For each EC meeting the General Treasurer shall provide an up-to-date report of the financial situation of the WJF.

Bye-Laws to Article 14

The General Treasurer is responsible for administering the Treasury of the World Judo Federation in accordance with Article 14 of the Statutes. He keeps the journal, prepares financial statements, and elaborates the annual plan of finances.

He administers the capital of the WJF and settles its financial obligations. The General Treasurer must be consulted in all financial matters and shall assist at each negotiation on financial matters.

The Treasurer shall look for possibilities of increasing the Treasury of the WJF and shall submit proposals to the Executive Committee.

The financial activities must not annul or restrict the rights fixed in the Statutes of the WJF, Continental Institutions and of the National Organizations

He is also responsible for the negotiations with the WJF official suppliers, and TV rights to the Judo World Championships as well as the financial aspects related to the Multidisciplinary Games. He must ensure that all fees and payments have been paid on time and to maintain an amicable relationship with each party. The General Treasurer is also in charge of copyrighting the logo of the WJF.

Article 15 - 

Technical Directors

15.1 Sports Director - The Sports Director is elected by the Congress. He shall guide and manage the sporting activities of the WJF including the coordination of doping control and is also responsible for proposals of development and changes to the Rules and Regulations of sports activities as well as for the amelioration of competition systems. The Sports Director is required to keep current and accurate records of Congress and EC Meetings in his specific field.

Bye-Laws to Article 15.1

The Sports Director is responsible for sporting activity and its development in the World Judo Federation. He shall control sporting activities and supervise the adherence to the sporting rules and decisions.

The Sports Director shall elaborate the annual sporting plan and the regulations for the Multidisciplinary Games, World Championships and other events. The Sports Director is responsible for the fluid operation of competition systems as well as for the Sporting and Organization Rules.

He assists by advising and controlling the preparations for the Multidisciplinary Games, the World Championships and other events and also directs the preparation and course of the competitions with the assistance of other members of the EC and Commission members. He assumes the role of Technical Delegate for the different international judo events organized by other associations and national organizations.

The Sports Director is a member and the chairperson of the Sports Commission. He is responsible for the fulfillment of the tasks of his Commission and ensures that reports and minutes are written.

15.2 Refereeing Director - The Refereeing Director is elected by the Congress. He shall guide and manage the refereeing activities of the WJF and is responsible for the proposals of development and changes to the Rules and Regulations regarding the refereeing of judo. The Refereeing Director is required to keep current and accurate records of Congress and EC Meetings in his specific field.

Bye-Laws to Article 15.2

The Refereeing Director is responsible for refereeing activity and its development in the World Judo Federation. He shall control refereeing activities and supervise the adherence to the Refereeing Rules on refereeing and decisions.

The Refereeing Director shall elaborate the annual refereeing plan and the regulations for the Multidisciplinary Games, World Championships and other events. The Refereeing Director is responsible for the amelioration of Refereeing Rules on refereeing.

He assists by advising and controlling the preparation in his area of the Multidisciplinary Games, World Championships and other events and directs refereeing activities before and during the course of the competitions, with the assistance of other members of the EC and commission members.

He confirms, controls and coordinates the referee examinations organized by the Contienental Institutions.

The Refereeing Director is a member and the chairperson of the Refereeing Commission. He is responsible for the fulfillment of the tasks of his Commission and ensures that reports and minutes are written.

The Refereeing Director must compile a list of all accredited WJF referees.

15.3 Education Director - The Education Director is elected by the Congress. He shall guide and manage the educational activities of the WJF and is responsible for proposals of development and changes regarding judo education. The Education Director is required to keep current and accurate records of Congress and EC Meetings in his specific field.

Bye-Laws to Article 15.3

The Education Director is responsible for the education activities and their development.

He shall control education activities and is responsible for adherence to the direction given by the Congress or EC.

The Education Director shall elaborate the annual Education Plan including the schedule and compile the statistics for the Multidisciplinary Games and World Championships.

He is responsible for making recommendations to the EC and Congress to carry out studies to further the development of judo.

The Education Director is a member and the chairperson of the Education Commission. He is responsible for the fulfillment of the tasks of his Commission and ensures that reports and minutes are written.

He is in charge of proposing criteria for the grading of 8th Dan and above.

Article 16 - WJF Events.

16.1 The WJF events are composed of the judo events of the Multidisciplinary Games, The World Championships, The Junior World Championships, The World Championships by Team of Nations, other organized WJF classified events, Seminars, and Training Camps organized by the WJF.

16.2 Upon the completion of the Multidisciplinary Games, the WJF will prepare for the following Multidisciplinary Games in close connection with the Organizing Committee of the next event, and with the support of the appointed Commissioner.

16.3 All member National Organizations shall have the right to apply for the organization of an WJF event, other than the Multidisciplinary Games, in accordance with the Rules of the WJF.

16.4 The National Organization that wishes to organize an WJF event must apply to the General Secretariat as defined in the Bye-Laws and concerned Rules.

16.5 If there is no candidate to host a particular WJF event, other than the Multidisciplinary Games, before the appropriate Congress, the EC will decide the organizer of an WJF event.

Bye-Laws to Article 16

1. A member National Organization must submit their proposal to organize an WJF event 6 months before the appropriate Congress to the General Secretary, who will then forward it to all members of the EC. Representatives from the applying member National Organizations will be invited to an EC Meeting to present their proposal before the EC. At the following Congress, the EC will inform the Congress of all the applicant and will make recommendations.

2. The site for:

a. The World Championships will be determined a minimum of 4

years before it occurs;

b. The Junior World Championships will be determined a minimum

of 3 years before it occurs; and

c. The Team World Championships will be determined a minimum

of 3 years before it occurs.

Article 17 - 

WJF Commissions

The WJF shall have the following standing commissions:

a Sport Commission;

a Refereeing Commission; and Education Commission

The Sports, Refereeing and Education Director shall chair their respective commissions. The composition of these commissions is defined in the Bye- Laws.

Bye-Laws to Article 17

Tasks and Working Method of the Commissions

Duration of the Mandates

The members nominated by their Continental Institutions and the members nominated by the EC will remain in office until withdrawn by their Continental Institution or by the EC.

Authority

The Commissions come under the authority of the EC of the World Judo Federation. All their proposals or suggestions must be presented to the EC which will decide what action, if any, shall be taken.

Working Method

Written communications

The correspondence within the Commission is directed by the Chairperson or by an appointed secretary. The correspondence to the EC or to other Commissions will be realized through the General Secretary.

Extraordinary Meeting

Extraordinary meetings can be convened on the proposal of the Chairperson, or the EC or by the Congress.

Ordinary Meetings

Ordinary meetings will be fixed in the annual calendar of the WJF, if proposed by the Chairperson and approved by the EC.

Bye-Laws for the Sports Commission: Composition

The Sports Commission shall be composed of the Sports Director of the WJF, who is the chair of the commission, and one member from each

      

Continental Institution. Members may only be nominated provided they have the agreement of their respective Continental Institution and National Organization.

Role and Functions:

The Commission supports the work of the Sports Director of the WJF. Its main tasks are:

to elaborate calendars for several year. The Sports Commission must communicate with the countries which are candidates to organize the championships,

to act so that the sporting events registered in the WJF calendar can be organized according to the rules,

to assist and offer advice to the organizer,

to study the competition system and the rules that are likely to improve them,

to examine all questions linked with the sporting aspects of judo discipline,

to be responsible for the medical aspects of judo and also collaborate with Medical Director for questions concerning anti- doping control in cooperation with the WJF Medical Commissioner,

to organize courses, organizing seminars and exhibitions and educational forums on a continental and worldwide level to ensure worldwide consistency,

to meet with Refereeing and Education Commissions to ensure all WJF technical matters are discussed and agreed upon,

to carry out and study issues assigned to the commission by the EC,

to ensure use of the annual budget is done in the most efficient and effective manner,

to approve tournament sites and technical personnel for all World Championships and Multidisciplinary Games from a sporting perspective,

to maintain updating of the Sports and Organization Rules

Bye-Laws for the Refereeing Commission Composition:

The Refereeing Commission shall be composed of the Refereeing Director of the WJF, who is the chair of the commission, and one member from each Continental Institution. Members may only be nominated provided they have the agreement of their respective Continental Institution and National Organization. All commission members must hold an WJF International license.

Role and Functions:

The Commission supports the work of the Refereeing Director of the WJF. 

Its main tasks are:

to examine and grant all WJF International licenses throughout the world, to ensure that all WJF sanctioned events are conducted in accordance with the WJF Refereeing Rules and Regulations,

to establish a permanent contact with the continental institutions Refereeing Commissions in order to interpret all WJF Rules,

to approve tournament sites and technical personnel for all World Championships and Multidisciplinary Games from a refereeing perspective,

to evaluate referees to "A", "B", "C" at every Multidisciplinary Games and World Championships and Junior World Championships,

to create an WJF Refereeing Commission roster list for Multidisciplinary Games and World Championships to ensure best possible referees are selected,

to present to the WJF EC the names of the referees for the events registered in the calendar; chosen from the recommended lists presented by each continent,

to keep an up to date database of all WJF International and Continental examinations and lists of active, inactive and retired licensed referees worldwide,

to meet with Sports and Education Commissions to ensure all WJF technical matters are discussed and agreed upon,

to promote interest in, and study and practice of refereeing around the world,

to organize courses, seminars and exhibitions and educational forums on a continental institutions and worldwide level to ensure worldwide consistency,

to provide financial incentives and support for Continental Institutions in need of referees skill development and upgrading, to produce audio-visual tapes for distribution to all Continental Institutions to ensure latest rules and regulations are known and used around the world,

to ensure Refereeing Rules are re-printed every four (4) years,

to ensure use of the annual budget is done in the most efficient and effective manner,

to carry out and study issues assigned to the commission by the EC.

Bye-Laws for the Education Commission Composition

               

The Education Commission shall be composed of the Education Director of the WJF, who is the chair of the commission, and one member from each Continental Institution. Members may only be nominated provided they have the agreement of their respective Continental Institution and National Organization.

Role and Functions:

The Commission supports the work of the Education Director of the WJF. Its main tasks are:

to study and execute systematical activities for the development and diffusion of judo around the world,

to provide aid and cooperation, especially to developing judo countries,

to study methods of education and teaching of judo and to train instructors,

to prepare and distribute materials necessary for the education of judo,

to gather and make available data concerning medical and scientific subjects related to judo,

to elaborate the statistical reports for World Championships,

to formulate statistics on the development and results of all important Championship events and WJF events and to publish periodically summaries of the statistical reports,

to organize courses, coaching seminars and exhibitions and educational forums on a continental and worldwide level to ensure worldwide consistency,

to meet with Refereeing and Sports Commissions to ensure all WJF technical matters are discussed and agreed upon,

to carry out and study issues assigned to the commission by the EC.

to ensure use of the annual budget is done in the most efficient and effective manner.

Article 18 - 

WJF Commissioners

The EC shall appoint, among others, the following commissioners according to its requirements:

Media Commissioner;

The Media Commissioner shall organize and coordinate all media activities of the World Judo Federation in cooperation with the EC. Medical Commissioner;

The Medical Commissioner shall advise the EC concerning medical matters and anti-doping control.

             

The commissioners are not EC members, but they may participate in EC Meetings at the request of the President or other EC members. All commissioners are accountable to the EC.

Bye-Laws of Media Commissioner: Duration of the Mandate

The appointment of the Media commissioner of the WJF shall be for a period of two years.

Role and Function

The Media Commissioner is the official liaison of the World Judo Federation to the media. In accordance with the Statutes of the WJF, he or she will be appointed by the EC.

The Media Commissioner organizes and coordinates all media activities of the World Judo Federation in cooperation with the WJF EC. He controls the official WJF-publications, whether it be written, spoken or on film. During multidisciplinary operations the media commissioner acts as the adviser to the Judo press officer and as the representatives of the Worldl Judo Federation for all media activities.

The Media Commissioner shall have the final decision regarding the admission of media personal for all WJF events, that includes written press, photographers, radio and TV-journalists and TV or film camera controlled and allocated areas for written press, photographers and electronic press.

The Media Commissioner is the adviser in all questions concerning media activities to the WJF EC. He shall use his expertise for the preparation of TV contracts.

Bye-Laws of Medical Commissioner

On the proposal either of the National Judo organization of the country which will host the World Championships or of the Continental Institution to which the country belongs, the EC of the WJF may appoint a Medical Commissioner.

Duration of the Mandate

The appointment of the Medical Commissioner of the WJF shall be for a period of two years.

Authority

The WJF Medical Commissioner shall be entitled to attend EC meetings and Sports Commission meetings that are held during the two year period preceding the World Championships, at the request of the WJF President.

He will have no right to vote within the EC.

The WJF Medical Commissioner shall support the EC, and the Sports Director, particularly in the matter of anti-doping control.

Role and Function

to advise the EC and particularly the WJF Sports Commission concerning medical matters and aspects related with the Judo practice

to be responsible for the carrying out of the anti-doping controls in the WJF in coordination with the Sports Commission

to elaborate for the WJF and to submit them to the EC all documents dealing with medical and anti-doping questions based on the decisions of the Medical Commission.

to support the Refereeing Commission and the Sports Commission with regards to medical questions at the World Championships

to control and supervise medical facilities and services during World Championships and eventually some other WJF events depending the requests of the WJF EC

to participate to the organization of medical symposium if requested by the WJF EC

to contribute to the coordination between the organizing country and the WJF EC

Article 19 - Fiscal Period

The financial and accounting fiscal period of the World Judo Federation starts on 1 January and ends on 31 December in each year.

Article 20 - 

Income and Expenditure

20.1 All the expenses of the WJF are covered by the annual dues of the Member Organizations, by TV broadcasting rights, by license fees from sponsors, donations and by all remittances from other sources.

20.2 Member Organizations must pay each year to the WJF Treasury, through the Continental Institution treasury, the annual fee as fixed by the Congress, upon written demand from the WJF General Treasurer to the Continental Institutions.

20.3 A Member Organization whose membership fees to the WJF and/or Continental Institution to which they belong, has not been paid by the 31st of May of each year, will not be permitted to take part in the Multidisciplinary Games, World Championships or any other event held under the auspices of the WJF.

20.4 Continental Institutions will receive a percentage, prescribed by the Congress, of the net profit (all income minus all expenses of the event) from the Multidisciplinary Games and the World Championships. If there are dues pending from any member National Organization or Continental Institution, the amount will be deducted from the funds to be paid to the corresponding Continental Institution.

20.5 All personnel of the World Judo Federation will offer their services without pay. Their traveling and living expenses, however, will be assumed by the WJF during all meetings and official missions with the exception of meetings or missions for which expenses are assumed by another organization.

20.6 All the television, radio, film, photographical, contractual and proprietarily rights of the World Championships and of Inter-Continental events organized by the WJF are the exclusive property of the WJF. These rights may not be sold or negotiated without the written agreement of the EC, who may delegate its authority to negotiate the sale or utilization of these rights, but who shall retain the sole responsibility for the final decision and for the utilization of the income from the sale of the rights.

20.7 All copyright of the WJF belong to the WJF. Member National Organizations or Continental Institutions may use the emblem only for the purpose of developing judo in their own National Organizations or Continental Institutions.

20.8 The WJF events are the exclusive property of the WJF which owns all rights relating thereto, in particular, and without limitation, the rights relating to their organization, exploitation, broadcasting and reproduction by any means whatsoever.

Article 21 - Auditing of Accounts

The General Treasurer shall recommend an internationally acceptable public accounting firm to the EC. If the EC accepts the appointment of the accounting firm for the auditing of the WJF accounts, the General Treasurer will oversee the control of the auditing process of the WJF accounts, once before the Ordinary Congress and once between the Congress. At the request of the EC, a representative from the appointed accounting firm may attend the EC Meeting and/or the Congress.

Article 22 - Expulsion, Resignation, Suspension

22.1 A National Organization may be expelled from the WJF for one of the following reasons:

a) As a result of expulsion from its Continental Institution. A National Organization expelled from its Continental Institution shall have the right of appeal to the WJF.

b) Non-payment of fees

22.1.1 A National Federation may only be expelled by a two-thirds majority vote by Congress.

22.2 A National Organization that has not paid their annual fees to the WJF by the required date may be suspended from all international activities until payment of all amounts due is received.

22.3 A National Organization whose account is still outstanding at the date fixed for the Congress, shall not have the right to participate in the work of the Congress.

22.4 Any National organization which has resigned or been expelled from the WJF and wishes to rejoin it, will have to pay a re-entry fee which may be equivalent to up-to a maximum of twice the amount it would have had to pay had it remained a member.

22.5 If a National Organization contravenes the Statutes of the WJF or acts against the WJF, its principles or its purposes, the Executive Committee, in agreement with and through the intermediation of the Continental Institution concerned, may restrain or suspend the activities of the said National Organization for such time as the Executive Committee sees fit.

The Executive Committee shall also have the power to suspend an individual participant who is affiliated with the WJF, or any National Organization which is a member of the WJF, if, in the opinion of the Executive Committee, the individual or National Organization acts against the WJF, its principles, or its purposes.

Such suspension shall be from all competitive events for such time as the Executive Committee sees fit

The suspension may be imposed either : (1) after an appropriate hearing against the individual; or, (2) prior to and until the conduct of a hearing on the matter where the Executive Committee finds that there is strong evidence of serious misconduct.

22.6 All actions, with the exception of expulsion, taken by a Continental Institutions with regard to one of its member national organizations shall entail the recognition of this action by the WJF.

22.7 National Organization are prohibited from having sporting relations with dissident organizations of a member country of the WJF, or with Member National Organizations that are suspended due to non-payment of fees or for disciplinary reasons. Should they do so, they will immediately be suspended and reported to the Congress, which will take the necessary disciplinary action.

22.8 In the interest of the development of Judo and the raising of its technical level in all countries, friendly sporting relations with countries which are not yet members of the WJF are authorized.

22.9 In the event that any judicial, quasi-judicial, administrative, or regulatory proceeding should arise in which a member National Organization and/or the World Judo Federation is required to expend resources to defend itself and/or the sport of Judo, then the member National Organization shall bear any and all responsibility for, indemnify and hold harmless the World Judo Federation against any legal action, costs, and repercussions that may occur as a result of legal action. Member National Organizations recognize this responsibility arises from the fact that they have been officially delegated all rights and responsibilities for and on behalf of the sport of Judo within the specified Continental Institutions in accordance with the WJF Statutes.

A member National Organization may not claim any damages against the World Judo Federation.

If a member National Organization fails to indemnify the World Judo Federation for any repercussions, including but not limited to awards of damages against the World Judo Federation and/or attorneys fees incurred by the World Judo Federation in its defense, that arise from legal proceedings, then the World Judo Federation shall suspend the member National Organization from all international activity.

Article 23 - Grades

23.1 The WJF recognizes only those grades which are awarded officially by the member National Organization to their own members to the exclusion of all others.

A National Organization may not award a grade to a member of another National Organization without the written accord of this organization. Any grade awarded without this agreement will not be recognized by the WJF.

23.2 The issuance of WJF Dan Grade Diplomas and ID Cards shall be exercised by the President of the Continental Institution wherein it originates. For awards of 8th Dan or above, the issuance shall be exercised after the EC confers and approves the final award of the WJF Dan Diploma and ID-Card. The cost of the WJF Dan Diploma and Card which is to be paid to the WJF shall be determined by the EC and approved by the WJF Congress

23.3 The recipient of a Dan certificate from a National Organization that differs from his own National Organization cannot be issued a higher level Dan certificate than the one he possesses in his own National Organization, unless the Dan certificate being issued is an honorary one. The recipient of a Dan certificate from the WJF also cannot be issued a higher level Dan certificate than the one he possesses in his own National Organization.

Bye-Laws to Article 23

If an applicant wishes to receive an WJF Dan certificate, levels 8 through 10, he must first obtain a letter of recommendation from their respective National Organization, which is to be submitted in turn to their respective Continental Institution. The Continental Institution or its appointed commission will then review the applicant's credentials and decide whether, on the merits, if the application should be approved. If they decide in favor of the applicant, the President of the applicant's Continental Institution shall submit his own letter of recommendation for the WJF EC approval. The President of the applicant's Continental Institution will then present the applicant with the requested Dan certificate upon the approval of the application by the WJF EC.

Additionally, a Continental Institution may, if it so wishes, appoint a Dan Commission to establish guidelines for the award of Dan and the issuance of the WJF Dan Diplomas.

Article 24 - 

WJF Honours and Awards

24.1 The EC may bestow the title of Honorary President, Honorary Officers, Honorary Members to personalities or dignitaries who have been of outstanding service or have made significant contributions to the WJF. Nominations for such posts shall be presented by the EC, Continental Institutions and National Organizations.

Bye-Laws to Article 24.1

Titles

The EC may recommend for the approval of the Congress of the World Judo Federation, the bestowing of the following titles and awards on persons who have rendered distinguished of special service to the development of world Judo.

Honorary President of the WJF Honorary Officer of the WJF Honorary Member of the WJF

Qualification

Honorary President of the WJF Past Presidents of WJF with more than 8 years

Honorary Officer of the WJF Past EC Members with more than 8 years Honorary Member of the WJF Past EC Members with more than 4 years

Past Commission Members with more than 8 years

Past Presidents of National Organization with more than 8 years

Nomination procedure

Proposals for WJF Honors and Awards shall be submitted in written form to the General Secretary, for the attention of the EC. The nomination shall include all supporting details of background and service in Judo. The EC will then make the decision.

24.2 Honorary Presidents, Honorary Officers and Honorary Members may attend Congresses and other events of the WJF, subject to the Bye-Laws of this Article.

Bye-Laws to Article 24. 2

Awards Criteria and Privileges

The conferring of this honor shall be advertised internationally through the WJF media. The Honorary President is further entitled to receive a complementary Honored Guest entry card to all events in the WJF calendar. His or her expenses will be reimbursed according to the WJF Rules.

24.3 Awards - The EC may bestow awards to personalities or dignitaries who have been of outstanding service or have made significant contributions to the WJF. Nominations for such awards shall be presented by the EC, Continental Institutions and National Organizations.

Bye-Laws to Article 24. 3

The EC may recommend for the approval of the Congress of the World Judo Federation, the bestowing of the following titles and awards on persons who have rendered distinguished of special service to the development of world Judo.

Medal of Merit of the WJF - Gold Award Medal of Merit of the WJF - Silver Award Medal of Merit of the WJF - Bronze Award

Nomination procedure

Proposals for WJF Awards shall be submitted in writing to the General Secretary. The nomination shall include all supporting details of the person and his background and service to Judo. The EC will decide who will receive the said awards.

Medal of Merit of the WJF - Gold Award Past EC Members

Medal of Merit of the WJF - Silver Award

a) Past Commission Members with more than 8 years

b) National Organization President with more than 8 years. c) Continental Institution EC Member with more than 8 years.

Medal of Merit of the WJF - Bronze Award

a) Past Commission Members,

b) National Organization President

c) Continental Institution EC Members

d) WJF International Referees with more than 12 years.

Medal of Merit of the WJF

The Congress may award the WJF Medal of Merit for outstanding achievement in the development of a National Organization, organization or institution. It may also be awarded to persons who have attained outstanding distinction in a national or international capacity, in an organizational or technical field associated with the WJF or a Continental Institution.

The presentation to award the WJF Medal of Merit will be made, where possible, during the WJF Congress, World Championships, Continental Championships or other such appropriate occasions. The recipient will receive a medal and the award published in the WJF Media.

The WJF General Secretary shall maintain a register of recipients of WJF Honors and Award and provide them with invitations and information as appropriate.

Following the approval of the EC, the awards and distinctions shall be conferred upon the nominee by the President of the World Judo Federation or his defined delegate.

Article 25 - Modifications to the Statutes

25.1 For anything which is not covered by these present Statutes, the EC may take action in accordance with the decisions of the Congress or take the necessary decision which must then be submitted for approval to the next Congress.

25.2 Modifications of the Statutes must be approved by a minimum of a two-thirds majority of the member National Organizations present at Congress from at least 3 different Continents.

25.3 Modifications to the Statutes become effective upon the completion of the Congress, unless otherwise decided by a majority of the Congress.

Article 26 - 

Bye-Laws and Rules

The WJF, in addition to its Statutes, shall establish Bye-Laws and Rules. The Bye-Laws and Rules shall be enacted and changed by the EC. These changes shall be submitted at the following Congress for approval.

Article 27 – Legal Dispute

The Parties should try to settle any legal dispute arising from or in connection to the Statutes, Bye-Laws, or any other Rules made by the WJF. If the parties cannot settle such dispute amicably, the same are sent to the common right.

Article 28 – Dissolution

The WJF shall not be dissolved except by a Congress specially convened for that purpose and by a proposal carried by a majority of two-thirds of the votes cast. In the case of dissolution, the property and funds of the World Judo Federation will be divided amongst its members.

.