Introduction

Ifpra is a non-profit-distributing organisation with headquarters in the United Kingdom. It maintains contacts throughout the world with national professional bodies representing parks, recreation, amenity, cultural, leisure and related services.  The official language of the Federation is English, but other languages may be used.  Over fifty nations are represented within Ifpra.  The Federation has no political affiliations.

History

Ifpra was established in London during 1957 at the time of the first International Congress in Parks and Recreation.

Aims and Objectives

The Federation’s main aims and objectives include:

• The advancement of parks, recreation, amenity, cultural and leisure services through representation   and the dissemination of knowledge and best practice
• The adoption of internationally acceptable training and qualification standards
• The promotion of relevant research
• The establishment of national recreation and park associations
• The promotion of the conservation ethic and the reduction of pollution
• The encouragement of efficient use of resources
• The organisation of international congresses and meetings
• The publication of a Journal
• The international exchange of students and professionals
• The establishment of regional and national sectors
• The development of an international network of individuals and organisations concerned with the objectives of the Federation

Management

Management of the Federation is vested in a governing Commission, which is elected by the General Assembly (all members of the Federation) at the time of each World Congress.
The Commission comprises the elected Officers (President, President Elect), the Chair of each Regional Sector and one appointed representative from each member nation.  The day-to-day business of the Federation is handled by an Executive Committee and the General Secretary.

Secretariat

The Secretariat of Ifpra is based in the United Kingdom.  The Secretariat administers all IFPRA matters, including the servicing of meetings and membership records.

Regional Sectors

The Commission may authorise the establishment of Regional Sectors upon petition by members in the regions concerned.  Authorised Regional Sectors are currently:

National Sectors

The Commission may authorise the formation of National Sectors.

Chapters

The Commission may also authorise the formation of Chapters within countries

Finance

The Federation is funded principally from membership subscriptions, congress capitation fees, grants, donations and from the investment of the Federation’s assets.