Historic First AETF Representatives Meeting Successfully Held in La Nucía, Spain

La Nucía, Spain | 19–20 June 2026

The All Europe Taekwon-Do Federation (AETF) successfully held its 1st AETF Representatives Meeting from 19–20 June 2026 in La Nucía, Spain, bringing together representatives from 16 member countries for a historic and groundbreaking weekend of discussion, collaboration, and strategic planning.

Hosted in the beautiful surroundings of the Barceló La Nucía Palms Hotel and the AETF Administrative Offices at the Camilo Cano Sports City, the meeting marked the first occasion in AETF history where member countries were invited to participate in an open forum dedicated entirely to sharing ideas, discussing challenges, and helping shape the future direction of European ITF Taekwon-Do.

The meeting was attended by representatives of sixteen National Associations together with AETF President Master Tomaz Barada, Vice President Master Paco Ferrando, General Secretary Stephen Ryan, Technical Director Grand Master Wim Bos, Official Advisor Grand Master Per Andresen, and members of the AETF Board of Directors.

Opening the meeting, President Tomaz Barada welcomed participants and highlighted the unique purpose of the gathering.

“This weekend is not about presentations. It is not about the Board speaking and everyone else listening. It is about creating a platform where every National Association has a voice.”

From the outset, the emphasis was on openness, participation, and genuine dialogue. President Barada encouraged all delegates to actively contribute to the discussions and help shape the future direction of the Federation.

“I would like to hear your ideas. I would like to hear your concerns. I would like to hear your criticism. Most importantly, I would like us to search for solutions together.”

Throughout the weekend, discussions were conducted in a highly positive, respectful, and collaborative atmosphere. Delegates openly exchanged experiences, identified challenges facing their National Associations, and contributed ideas on how the AETF can better support the development of Taekwon-Do throughout Europe.

The meeting focused on several important strategic topics, including the future direction of the AETF, the challenges and opportunities facing member countries, the continued development of educational and technical programmes, athlete and umpire development initiatives, communication and media strategy, coordination with the ITF, and the long-term growth of European ITF Taekwon-Do.

Participants were encouraged to share openly the realities faced by their organisations and to identify areas where greater support, coordination, and cooperation could be provided at European level. A particular emphasis was placed on ensuring that every National Association had the opportunity to contribute ideas and influence future priorities.

President Barada emphasised throughout the weekend that the strength of the Federation lies in its ability to listen to and understand the needs of its members.

“If we want to build a stronger AETF, we must first understand each other better.”

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to strategic planning and the development of the first draft of the AETF 2027 Programme. Discussions included future championships, ranking tournaments, educational activities, athlete programmes, technical seminars, umpire development, youth initiatives, media projects, sponsorship opportunities, and other key activities aimed at strengthening the European Taekwon-Do community.

Broader topics were discussed also, relating to international recognition, cooperation within the global ITF community, and the role Europe can play in supporting the continued development of Taekwon-Do worldwide.

One of the most valuable aspects of the weekend was the opportunity for delegates to engage directly with one another in an informal and friendly environment. The combination of structured discussions, workshops, and social interaction created an atmosphere that encouraged openness, mutual respect, and constructive dialogue.

Participants were encouraged to discuss both opportunities and challenges openly, with all viewpoints welcomed and respected.

“No topic should be considered difficult. No opinion should be considered unwelcome.”

This approach helped create an environment where delegates felt comfortable sharing their experiences and perspectives, leading to meaningful discussions and a number of valuable proposals for future development.

The meeting concluded with an open forum session during which participants reflected on the discussions held over the weekend and identified key priorities for future action. There was a strong consensus on the importance of maintaining regular communication, continuing to involve National Associations in strategic discussions, and ensuring that the AETF remains responsive to the needs of its members.

The AETF leadership wishes to express its sincere appreciation to all delegates who attended and contributed so positively throughout the weekend. The quality of discussion, willingness to share ideas, and commitment shown by participants demonstrated the strength of the European Taekwon-Do community and its shared desire to work together for the benefit of all members.

The event was coordinated by the AETF leadership with the objective of creating a more inclusive and collaborative approach to the future development of European ITF Taekwon-Do. The success of the meeting demonstrated the value of bringing together leaders from across Europe in a forum dedicated not to decision-making alone, but to listening, cooperation, and strategic planning.

As the first meeting of its kind, the event represents an important milestone in the development of the AETF and reinforces the Federation’s commitment to transparency, inclusion, collaboration, and good governance. The success of the weekend has confirmed the value of creating a dedicated forum where member countries can come together, exchange experiences, and actively contribute to shaping the future of European ITF Taekwon-Do.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue working together in the spirit expressed by President Barada during his opening address:

“I hope everyone leaves La Nucía feeling that they have been heard, respected and involved in shaping the future of European Taekwon-Do.”

The AETF looks forward to building upon the ideas and feedback received during the meeting and establishing the Representatives Meeting as an important annual gathering for European leaders, helping to strengthen cooperation and guide the future development of our Federation.

Together, we are building a stronger future for European Taekwon-Do.