The IOC: the supreme authority of the Movement;
The International Federations (IFs): these are international non-governmental organisations administering one or several sports at world
level and encompassing organisations administering such sports at national level (More information about IFs).
The National Olympic Committees: their mission is to develop, promote and protect the Olympic Movement in their respective countries. The NOCs are the only organisations that can select and designate the city which may apply to organise Olympic Games in their respective countries. In addition, they alone can send athletes to the Games. (More information about NOCs)
The goal of the Olympic Movement is to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practised without discrimination or any kind, in a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play.
The Olympic Movement is defined also by the numerous activities in which it engages, such as:
Promoting sport and competitions through the intermediary of national and international sports institutions worldwide.
Cooperation with public and private organisations to place sport at the service of mankind.
Assistance to develop "Sport for All".
Advancement of women in sport at all levels and in all structures, with a view to achieving equality between men and women.Help in the development of sport for all.
Opposition to all forms of commercial exploitation of sport and athletes.
The fight against doping.
Promoting sports ethics and fair play.
Raising awareness of environmental problems.
Financial and educational support for developing countries through the IOC institution Olympic Solidarity.