Today, on April 3, the 49th UEFA Congress took place in Belgrade, where the President of the Football Federation of Armenia, Armen Melikbekyan, was elected as a member of the UEFA Executive Committee for a four-year term. His candidacy received 29 votes from the organization's members. This achievement is significant not only for the official himself but also for all of Armenia.
What benefits will this bring to Armenia?
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Influence on decision-making
Membership in the UEFA Executive Committee allows Armenia to participate in shaping key strategies and policies in European football. This includes financial distribution, tournament organization, the introduction of new technologies and standards, and the regulation of national federations. -
Protection and promotion of national interests
Having an Armenian representative in the top leadership of European football provides the country with an opportunity to advocate for its interests, whether it be modernizing football infrastructure, improving coach training programs, or promoting Armenian clubs and national teams on the international stage. -
Strengthening image and authority
The election of Armen Melikbekyan to the UEFA Executive Committee elevates the status of the Football Federation of Armenia and the country as a whole in the eyes of the international sports community. This helps build trust with partners, investors, and sponsors, which, in turn, can attract additional resources for football development. -
Development of international relations
Through membership in the UEFA Executive Committee, Armenia gains access to an extensive network of connections among leading football officials in Europe. This opens up opportunities for cooperation, experience exchange, and joint projects with other countries. -
Access to financial and technical resources
UEFA allocates significant funds annually for the development of football in its member associations. Having an Armenian representative in the governing bodies increases the country’s chances of receiving grants, infrastructure support, and technical assistance for local football development.
The election of Armen Melikbekyan to the UEFA Executive Committee is a crucial step for Armenian football. It opens new prospects for the national federation, clubs, coaches, and players, allowing Armenia to strengthen its position in European football and actively participate in its development.
Responsibilities of UEFA Executive Committee Members:
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General oversight of UEFA and issuing necessary instructions
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Defining the organizational structure
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Establishing and overseeing accounting procedures
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Appointing members of various UEFA committees, including the Governance and Compliance Committee, and approving their powers
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Appointing members of UEFA’s judicial bodies
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Appointing the General Secretary and Deputy General Secretary(ies) upon the proposal of the UEFA President
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Dismissing the General Secretary and Deputy General Secretary(ies) upon the proposal of the UEFA President or by a decision supported by two-thirds or more of all Executive Committee members
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General supervision of the UEFA administration, including the General Secretary and Deputy General Secretary(ies), particularly regarding compliance with laws, the UEFA Statutes, rules, and regulations
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Approving UEFA administration’s annual business plan
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Preparing a written report to be presented at the next UEFA Congress
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Reviewing the administration's report (UEFA's annual report) at the next UEFA Congress
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The Executive Committee may delegate the preparation and implementation of its decisions or supervision of activities to one or more of its members. The committee is also authorized to delegate management, in whole or in part, to the President, one or more of its members, and/or UEFA administration.