Timur Turlov, President of the International Chess Federation
When I announced my candidacy for FIDE President, I spoke about the need to take our organization to a new level. Today, I would like to present one of the first important steps in that direction – FIDE’s new organizational structure.
Throughout its more than 100-year history, FIDE has gone through several stages of development. Each generation of leaders has addressed the challenges of its time. The Federation has expanded its international presence and improved its governance system. Many decisions made over the years remain relevant, but changing circumstances call for further development.
The world is changing rapidly. Technology is creating new opportunities, while approaches to governance and expectations of international organizations are evolving. Chess is also undergoing significant changes. Its audience is growing, and new ways of engaging with the chess community are emerging.
I believe FIDE has reached the next stage of its development.
I envision FIDE as a strong international institution capable of shaping a long-term strategy for the development of chess and consistently implementing it in the interests of the entire chess community.
Strengthening FIDE as an institution is a fundamental priority for me. FIDE brings together national federations with different interests and resources. The stability of such an organization depends on the effectiveness of its governance system. We need clearly defined responsibilities and transparent decision-making processes. Strong institutions must ensure strategic continuity regardless of changes in leadership.
FIDE’s role is also expanding. Alongside organizing international competitions, the Federation should take a more active role in developing chess worldwide. We intend to increase support for national federations, expand chess education, and attract new international partners. Modern technology offers significant opportunities to make this work more effective.
To achieve these goals, we have developed a new organizational structure for FIDE.
The new structure establishes a clearer division of responsibilities between FIDE’s governing bodies and its administrative units.
The General Assembly remains FIDE’s supreme governing body. We intend to strengthen the role of the FIDE Council by encouraging its members to take a more active part in setting strategic priorities and overseeing their implementation. A dedicated Governance Secretariat will support the work of the governing bodies and FIDE commissions.
The President’s Office will focus on strategic priorities and major international projects. It will include Special Representatives of the President responsible for specific areas of activity. Adil Kozhikhov, who has served as my adviser for many years, has been appointed Head of the President’s Office.
Another new element will be the Advisory Board, which we plan to bring together from professionals with international experience across various fields. Their expertise will help us develop our long-term strategy and evaluate new initiatives. The Advisory Board will serve in a consultative capacity within FIDE’s existing governance framework. Darmen Sadvakasov, a well-known grandmaster from Kazakhstan and a respected figure in the chess community, has been appointed Chair of the Advisory Board.
FIDE’s day-to-day operations will be managed by the administration under the leadership of the Secretary General. A clearer allocation of responsibilities among its departments will help improve operational efficiency. Alina Dvoretskaya, who previously served as Director General of the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), has been appointed Secretary General.
Our goal is to establish a coherent governance system in which every part of the organization works toward implementing a shared FIDE strategy.
I attach particular importance to building the team that will carry these changes forward.
During my election campaign, I promised to bring new people into FIDE’s leadership. We are steadily fulfilling that commitment. Professionals from different backgrounds are joining the Federation, bringing fresh ideas and new energy.
FIDE already has many experienced professionals who understand the chess world and how the Federation operates. We want their knowledge and expertise to continue contributing to the organization’s development.
I want us to build a united, cohesive team in which newcomers work alongside experienced colleagues. Everyone should understand their role and take responsibility for our shared results. Such a team will be essential to delivering on our plans.
I like the idea of a “New FIDE.” To me, it represents a new stage in the Federation’s institutional development, reflecting the demands of today’s world. We want to build a sustainable governance system that can support the development of chess for many years to come.
The new organizational structure lays the foundation for this work. Its success will be measured by tangible results for national federations and the wider chess community.