New World Sailing Proposals Portal enhances governance, transparency and efficiency at 2025 Annual Conference

Launched in July, the Proposals Portal is a new digital platform designed to streamline the submission, review, and approval of proposals across the sport. This initiative replaces the previous system of submissions to Council, fulfilling a commitment made in World Sailing’s strategy, Ready for the Future, and marking a significant step forward for World Sailing’s commitment to good governance, enhanced transparency, and more efficient decision-making processes.  

The portal provides a centralised interface for Member National Authorities (MNAs), Class Associations, Committees, and other stakeholders to submit proposals ranging from rule changes and event regulations to strategic initiatives. The platform ensures that all proposals are logged, reviewed and assigned to the appropriate body, fostering an environment of accountability and clarity.   

The Proposals Portal also allows a World Sailing Committee, Sub-Committee or Commission to collaborate with its members and consult with other bodies, before making its recommendation to the World Sailing Board or World Sailing Council.  

“This is an important step forward for World Sailing,” said World Sailing General Counsel Antonio Cozzolino.   

“This initiative is designed to significantly reduce administrative requirements, improve communication, and empower stakeholders by providing a direct and transparent channel for their contributions. By embracing digital processes, World Sailing aims to further strengthen our governance standards.  

“The launch of the Proposals Portal is in line with commitments to improved governance and transparency made in our strategy, Ready for the Future. We believe this portal will not only make it easier for our stakeholders to engage with us but will also ensure that every proposal receives fair consideration through a clearly defined and efficient process.”  

Under World Sailing’s new governance structure World Sailing Council meetings are scheduled for four times each year. This has increased the opportunity for proposals to be voted on – instead of being heard every November at the World Sailing Annual Conference.  

Proposals will now be subject to proposal deadlines in order to feature on the agenda of the next Council meeting. This is typically six weeks prior to the meeting to allow for consultation and the publishing of papers 14 days in advance.  

To access the Proposals Portal, please visit the World Sailing website.