The European Council formally added, on 16 September, the word ‘sport’ to the Education, Youth and Culture Council. According to Flemish Minister Philippe Muyters, responsible for sport in the Belgian EU Presidency, the insertion of the word ‘sport’ in the name of the Council confirms the intention to make full use of this new EU competence.

Muyters, who was pushing for the decision for a name change, is “delighted” with the decision: “This is a concrete result of the Belgian EU Presidency, which is not only a symbol but also a proof of the importance the EU attributes to sport. It is an honour for me to be able to chair the first ever ‘Sports Council’,” said Muyters.

Sport was discussed for the first time by the Education, Youth and Culture Council, meeting in Brussels on 10-11 May. Changes under the Lisbon Treaty allow the EU to “contribute” to the promotion of European sporting issues, notably promoting fairness and openness in competitions and protecting the physical and moral integrity of sports people.

Despite the new powers for EU sports policy, ministers appear cautious only supporting a limited number of priorities in any possible EU financial programme for sports in 2012 to 2013. EU action needs to have clear added value to national plans. For his part, Minister Muyters has talked of using the Belgian Presidency to emphasise sport’s social role. Education and training, the fight against doping and for social inclusion are also on Muyters’ agenda.

The next Sports Council takes place on 18-19 November. Sports topics include a Commission communication on future EU action in the field, “structured” dialogue with the sports movement as well as social inclusion in and through sport.