The #BEACTIVE DAY 2024 Conference, held at SPARKS in Brussels on December 13th, brought together stakeholders, policymakers, and experts to reflect on the achievements of this year’s campaign and discuss the future of physical activity across Europe.
This year’s #BEACTIVE DAY, part of the European Week of Sport, reached 11 million people, with over 21,000 events organised across 21 countries. More than 568,000 participants joined activities focused on promoting healthier lifestyles, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Campaign Achievements
The conference opened with remarks from Anna Miškovičová, Communications & Campaign Officer at EuropeActive, who emphasised the importance of tackling inactivity, reminding attendees that “1 in 4 Europeans still do not meet recommended physical activity levels.”
A campaign recap presented by Kiera Wason, EU Affairs Manager at EuropeActive, highlighted how the campaign encouraged collaboration between national organisations, local communities, and experts to create meaningful impact. She also introduced this years' data collection platform, developed in partnership with 4global, which provided valuable insights into engagement across all participating countries.
Insights from the European Commission
A keynote address by Floor Van Houdt, Head of the Sports Unit at the European Commission, was a central feature of the conference. She congratulated the campaign organisers and participants, stating:
“You have to be proud of what you have achieved with the #BEACTIVE DAY!”
She shared updates on EU policies supporting mental and physical wellbeing, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration and preparing for next year’s European Week of Sport.
Panels on Accessibility and Sustainability
The event featured two panel discussions that explored practical approaches to key campaign themes:
Accessibility
Experts from across Europe shared strategies for improving accessibility in sport and fitness:
- Olek Kazimirowski (Belgian Paralympic Committee) emphasised the value of creating partnerships with sports federations and adapting facilities to better include people with disabilities.
- Brenda O’Donnell (Active Disability Ireland) discussed training fitness professionals and working with parents and healthcare providers to ensure inclusive opportunities.
- Magdalena Spasovska (Takt North Macedonia) highlighted the importance of collaborating with local municipalities and using traditional media to reach underserved communities.
- Gints Kuzņecovs (Latvian Health and Fitness Association) stressed the role of storytelling and expert input in developing effective solutions.
Sustainability
Panellists explored ways to embed sustainability into fitness and leisure practices:
- Christian Hörl (Association of Austrian Sports and Leisure Enterprises) shared Austria’s progress with solar-powered facilities and green event certifications.
- Miloš Bunić (SRFS Serbia) showcased eco-friendly running events and gyms built using recycled materials.
- Val Sizychas (Ireland Active) provided practical examples, such as reducing single-use plastics, promoting carpooling, and recognising sustainable efforts through awards.
Discussions across both panels underscored the importance of local solutions, collaboration, and small, actionable steps to make physical activity more inclusive and sustainable.
The Role of Cross-Sector Collaboration
At the conference, next year’s topic was unveiled: The Critical Role of Physical Activity in Preventing and Managing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). This theme represents an excellent opportunity for cross-sectoral collaboration, particularly with the health sector, to address the growing burden of NCDs.
A highlight of this session was a powerful presentation by Birgit Beger, CEO of the European Heart Network (EHN), delivered a compelling presentation on the critical role of cross-sector collaboration in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Her message was clear:
“No sector alone has the solution. Cooperation creates the answer.”
Her call to action highlighted the need for stronger partnerships between health, sport, and policy sectors to address one of Europe’s most pressing public health challenges.
A Reminder: Sustainability and Accessibility Guides
Earlier this year, EuropeActive released the Sustainability and Accessibility Guides, developed in collaboration with the project consortium and experts such as Gunta Anca (The Latvian Umbrella Body for Disability Organisations, SUSTENTO) and Luis Monteiro (European Network of Outdoor Sports). Available for free in nine languages, these guides offer practical tools to help event organisers create activities that are both inclusive and environmentally responsible. They can be accessed here.
Looking Ahead
The conference concluded with remarks from Kai Troll, CEO of EuropeActive, who reflected on the success of the campaign and thanked participants for their contributions. He emphasised the need to sustain this momentum into 2025 and beyond, with a continued focus on making physical activity accessible to all.
PR materials can be found here.
Website: www.beactiveday.eu
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About EuropeActive EuropeActive, headquartered in Brussels, is the leading European Health and Fitness Association dedicated to promoting the benefits of a healthier, more active lifestyle to Europeans. Its mission extends beyond increasing participation in physical activities, encompassing advocacy for health and fitness as integral parts of everyday life. For further information, please visit www.europeactive.eu |
