48th ICSD Extraordinary Congress Minutes - Lausanne 2021

28–29 November 2021 | Alpha Palmiers Hotel, Lausanne, Switzerland

28 November 2021

The session started at 09:40

Mr. REBROV emphasized the importance of confidentiality during this Congress and urged everyone to show respect. Furthermore, he stated that individuals who are required to take Covid-19 tests must complete the necessary forms in advance, as a designated individual will be administering the tests.

Mr. PERAZZOLO: expressed his gratitude towards all attendees of the 48th ICSD Extraordinary Congress. He proceeded to provide an overview of the key topics on the agenda, which are as follows:

• Accounting for the period 2013 - 2019;
• Reform outcomes;
• Status of relations with the International Olympic Committee and reinstatement of recognition;

The communication from the IOC Sports Department, dated November 16, 2021, was presented on the screen for the delegates. It tackled the status of ICSD and emphasized the importance of Congress delegates participating in constructive dialogue to address and resolve outstanding issues.
1. It is anticipated that the congress will successfully conclude and approve the ongoing reforms, along with the financial reports for the period spanning from 2013 to 2019.
2. Since the 2019 Full Congress in Italy, ICSD has encountered significant challenges concerning its Board members. It is of utmost importance to seek and implement resolutions for these issues.
3. ICSD will require to establish a systematic approach for formal internal and external communication.
Mr. PERAZZOLO: expressed his gratitude to the presidents of the Regional Confederations for their steadfast support towards the governance of ICSD over the past year.
Appointment of moderators
1. The Regional Confederation president explained that "a moderator with great knowledge and understanding should be chosen from the Congress floor."
  The proposed candidates:
  Mr. Jaroslaw JANIEC (Poland)
  Mr. David LANESMAN (Israel)
2. DEN: Proposal on two external and neutral persons:
  The proposed candidates:
  Ms. Helga STEVENS (Belgium)
  Mr. Kasper BERGMANN (Denmark)
3. Nominated moderators:
  Mr. David LANESMAN (Israel)
  Mr. Jaroslaw JANIEC (Poland)
  Mr. Kasper BERGMANN (Denmark)
4. Kasper Bergmann was chosen to be moderator as neutral person.
  Yes = 30
  Result - Passed (over 50% + 1)
Roll Call to present countries:
Argentina
Austria
Bahrain
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Ecuador
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Great Britain
Greece
Hungary
India
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
Korea
Kosovo
Kuwait
Latvia
Lebanon
Lithuania
Malaysia
Netherlands
Norway
Pakistan
Poland
Portugal
Russian Committee of Deaf Sports
Saudi Arabia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Thailand
Turkey
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States
1. The total number of ICSD members is 116 plus 4 Associate Members. From the total number 55 members are in a good standing.
2. DEN: Permit Zoom participation for members in good standing who are unable to attend the Congress in person.
  
  Vote on allowing members in good standing to utilize Zoom for remote participation:
  Yes = 26, No = 14, Abstention = 5
  Result - Passed.
3. The following countries have joined the Zoom session:
  • Belgium
  • Chinese Taipei
4. Mr. Robert MATHER, Chair of the ICSD Legal Commission, joining the Congress on Zoom.
5. 51 members present at the 48th Extraordinary Congress in person, and an additional two (2) members participating remotely via Zoom. This brings the total number of participating countries to 53.
6. Mr. MATHER clarified that for the vote to pass, a minimum of 50% plus one (1) of the delegates must be present. He emphasized that an "Abstention" vote would be considered as a "No" vote.
  
  With a total of 53 delegates, we require 27 votes in favor of the motion for it to pass. As per the Constitution, it is required that over 50% of good standing members be present for the Congress to proceed. Since this requirement has been met, we can confirm that the motion has passed, and the Congress can now proceed.
7. Ms. ADAMS, a member of the Executive Board, has joined via Zoom.
Appointment of three scrutineers:
Ms. Isabelle MALAURIE (representative of EDSO, non-delegate)
Ms. Miriam OPONDO (representative of CADS, non-delegate)
Ms. Silvia MUTURI (representative of CADS, non-delegate)

Accepted unanimously by the Congress.
The Presidents of the Regional Confederations have been informed about the presence of the representatives from the World Deaf Ice Hockey Federation (WDIHF) in Lausanne and their expressed intention to participate in the Congress.
1. Mr. REBROV explained that during the ICSD Biannual Congress 2019, two additional association members, namely, the World Deaf Ice Hockey Federation (WDIHF) and the International Deaf Athletics Federation (IDAF), submitted their application to become members of ICSD. However, the approval of these members by the Executive Board is still pending due to a lack of necessary materials. The decision about admitting the IDIHF representatives to this Extraordinary Congress lies within the discretion of the delegates.
2. CAN: highlighted that only members in a good standing present at the Congress hold the authority to determine whether to permit the entry of WDIHF representatives into this Extraordinary Congress.
  
  Vote on allowing the IDIHF to attend the 48th Extraordinary Congress:
  Yes = 16, No = 23, Abstention = 5
  Result - Not Passed
3. Uzbekistan has just joined on Zoom.
  The total number of delegates is 54.
  We have 54 delegates, and we need 28 votes to pass the motion.
4. Vote on granting the WDIHF permission to enter this Extraordinary Congress as an observer.
  Yes = 22, No = 22, Abstention = 6
  Result - Not Passed
Approval of the Agenda
1. NED: Conduct elections for a 4-year term in light of the expiration of the previous term of office for the Executive Board members.
2. HUN: Request to the ICSD Legal Commission to explain the meaning of the four (4) year term.
3. DIBF: Proposed to move up the ICSD Governance to the first and then Finance and Reform.
4. USA: raised a question regarding whether the election process falls within the scope of governance.
5. FIN: raised a concern about the participation of the five (5) suspended Board members in the upcoming election. They seek clarification on whether these members should be involved in the election or not.
6. CAN: pointed out that the election process is a part of the Governance and no need to include it as a separate item on the agenda.
7. BEL: emphasized the need for comments from the ICSD Legal Commission, as there has been insufficient preparation to present the candidates for the election.
8. Mr. GRIGORYAN expressed his lack of awareness regarding the agenda and the focus of the Extraordinary Congress on Finance and Reforms. He also raised concerns about a potential breach of the Constitution, highlighting that a Swiss lawyer was brought in to present and guide the ongoing dispute. Mr. GRIGORYAN noted his intention to be supervised by the lawyer during the proceedings.
9. GBR: raised a question regarding the existence of three (3) different agendas: 1. ICSD Executive Board, 2. ICSD Vice-President and Regional Confederation, 3. An alternative agenda.
10. Mr REBROV: explained that the Agenda of this Extraordinary Congress 2021, approved during the 2019 Annual Congress in Italy, was initially to concentrate solely on Accounting and Reform matters. However, due to the current internal situation in the Executive Board, it is suggested to include a discussion of Governance on the agenda and potentially an election procedure incorporating ICSD Governance to address the issue of Board members and potential elections.
11. BEL: agreed with DIBF's proposal and to promptly hold an election to address the situation before proceeding with the remaining agenda items.
12. Mr. MATHER: the Legal Commission intends to hear arguments regarding the Executive Board composition. It is suggested that Executive Board members present their rationale within ten (10) minutes. This will be followed by a question-and-answer session before the Legal Commission offers opinions for the Extraordinary Congress to make the final decision.
13. HUN: emphasized the need for an immediate decision and vote due to time limitations.
14. CAN: Proposal for the agenda
  • Account
  • Reform
  • ICSD Governance
  • Summer Deaflympics 2021
  
  Vote for Canada's proposal to amend the agenda:
  Yes = 46, No = 1, Abstention = 0
  Result - Passed
Accounting Reports 2013-2019
1. Mr REBROV: The ICSD financial system has been relocated from the USA to Switzerland and the financial reporting is conducting in accordance to the Swiss requirements.
2. Mr. GRIGORYAN: asked permission for his lawyer to be present in the room and reaffirmed the latter independence.
3. USA: asked whether the lawyer represents only interests of Mr. GRIGORYAN or all suspended members.
  1. Mr GRIGORYAN: has confirmed that the lawyer is representing the suspended members.
  2. HUN: allows for the fact that Executive Board members may have recourse to legal counsel.
4. Mr. FELLI, responsible for ICSD finance, clarified that the ICSD accountant, Mr. DELAFONTAINE is a Swiss resident. As per Swiss law, it is a requirement for financial matters to be handled by an individual resident of Switzerland.
5. Mr DELAFONTAINE, ICSD accountant, brought his report to the attention of the delegates.
6. NED: inquired whether auditors and an accountant are representatives of the same organisation, and raised the issue of 61 members who were not in good standing and had outstanding debts, which affected the account balance.
  1. Mr REBROV: clarified that the authority to write off any bad debts, particularly those related to African nations, lies solely with the Full Congress. This matter can be addressed and resolved at the upcoming annual Congress session.
  2. Mr DELAFONTAINE: auditors and accountant are representatives of independent unrelated organisations
7. ISR: expressed acknowledgment that the auditors performed their duties in a professional manner, and recommended that the financial reports be accepted by this Extraordinary Congress.
8. GER: inquired about the presence of a secondary signature requirement, following that of the ICSD CEO, for any expenditures.
9. Mr REBROV: clarified that, in accordance with Swiss Law, two signatures are required for financial matters. The first signature belongs to the ICSD CEO, which is himself, and the second signature is that of Mr. FELLI
10. Ms ADAMS: expressed satisfaction with the financial reports. However, she conveyed her disappointment regarding the suspended Executive Board members' inability to communicate with ICSD Secretariat regarding the account prior to this point.
  1. GBR: raised a point by highlighting that the Board members hold responsibility for the financial matters outlined on page 2 of the financial reports. The concern was expressed regarding the lack of awareness among suspended Executive Board members regarding accounting and what should be the procedure of approval in place.
11. CAN: inquired whether the accountant had communicated with any member of the suspended Executive Board regarding the financial matters.
12. Mr. DELAFONTAINE: clarified that he had indeed communicated with a member of the Executive Board as well as Mr. FELLI regarding the financial matters.
13. Mr. FELLI: explained that a board member means one of the Presidents of a Regional Confederation. explained that according to the decision announced to him, the temporarily appointed Executive Board members of the ICSD are presidents of Regional Confederations.
14. Mr. MADOUN: clarified that the responsibility for handling the account rested with four (4) Regional Confederation presidents who have placed trust in the auditor, overseeing the ICSD accounts.
15. Ms. ADAMS: highlighted the fact that ICSD Secretariat had not shared financial details with the suspended Executive Board members.
16. HUN: emphasized the need to shift the focus solely onto the account and suggested that discussions regarding other issues be reserved for the ICSD Governance discussions.
17. POR: expressed interest in hearing the accountant's recommendation regarding future accounts.
18. BEL: raised a question regarding how the ICSD generates profits without receiving funds from the International Olympic Committee and requested the accountant to provide an answer to this inquiry.
19. Mr. REBROV: clarified that the ICSD has generated funds through World Championships and Deaflympics accreditations and has been diligent in managing these funds by maintaining minimal expenses. It was further noted that the ICSD staff member's payment would be withheld until the IOC funds are received up to the current date.
20. Mr DELAFONTAINE: confirmed that the ICSD fund did not increase. Additionally, mentioned that the accounts must be approved by the Extraordinary Congress before the International Olympic Committee can release the funds.
21. CAN: made a request for improved access to the financial information and proposed that during the forthcoming Congress the account information to be displayed on the screen, allowing the accountant to summarize and explain the reasons behind it.
22. Ms ADAMS: emphasized that it is crucial for Executive Board members to adhere to the Constitution and refrain from involving Mr. PERAZZOLO, ICSD interim president. She further requested the Extraordinary Congress to reject the accounts.
23. Mr. GRIGORYAN: raised a concern that the suspended Executive Board members had not received the account materials for a period of two years. He stressed that it is the responsibility of the Executive Board members to stay informed about such matters. However, if the Extraordinary Congress approves the account, he will not raise any objections.
24. HUN: highlighted that the main objective of this Extraordinary Congress is to approve the account once the account reports from 2013 to 2019 have been received. They informed the attendees that an independent accountant is present, who has confirmed that the account fully adheres to the Swiss law. Hungary emphasized that the responsibility of approving the account lies with the Extraordinary Congress and not with the ICSD Executive Board members.
  
  Vote for Approval of Accounts 2013 - 2019
  Yes = 43, No = 2, Abstention = 2
  Result - Passed

Agenda Changes
1. FIN: suggested rearranging the agenda by swapping the order of the Reform and ICSD Governance items.
2. HUN: expressed support for Finland's proposal, emphasizing the need to avoid any additional time wastage, similar to what was experienced during the finance report discussion.
3. NED: emphasized the importance of prioritizing the Reform agenda for the future, suggesting that it should be addressed before delving into the ICSD Governance item.
4. DIBF: raised a point regarding the updated version of the Reform materials. DIBF expressed their willingness to discuss the amendments to the new version during the reform session, and they would be content for the vote to proceed accordingly.
5. Mr. KIHTIR: suggested prioritizing the Reform agenda by focusing on it first before moving on to other matters.
6. GER: pointed out the need to prioritize the Reform agenda, suggesting that it should be addressed first. They highlighted that once the Reform discussions are concluded, it will naturally lead to a seamless transition into the ICSD Governance topic.
7. Mr. PARGAR: raised a concern, pointing out that the agenda had already been voted upon earlier in the day. He expressed his reservation about changing the agenda again.
8. HUN: provided an explanation, stating that as an Extraordinary Congress, it presents an opportunity to effectively resolve the issues at hand. Hence, they emphasized the importance of revisiting and discussing the agenda to ensure the best possible outcomes.
9. Mr. GRIGORYAN: explained that the suspended Executive Board members require additional time to adequately prepare themselves. He expressed concern that any changes to the agenda would impact their preparation process and potentially hinder their ability to contribute effectively.
10. Mr. MATHER: provided clarification by explaining that changing the order of the agenda, in accordance with the Bylaws, would require a vote of 50% plus one (1). As it is not a different agenda but simply a reordering, this voting requirement applies.
11. A motion was made to amend the agenda by proposing that ICSD Governance be addressed first, followed by the Reform agenda.
  
  Vote for amending the agenda:
  53 delegates at present Note: 27 votes to pass
  Yes = 19, No = 31, Abstention = 0
  Result - Not Passed
Reform
1. Mr. REBROV: provided an explanation regarding the requests made by Ms. ADAMS and Mr. Crowley since 2013. He highlighted that their requests aimed at reforming the ICSD, which involved comprehensive changes such as revisiting the Constitution, Bylaws, Boards, and other aspects of the organization.
2. That proposal "C" was delayed until Rebecca ADAMS decided to set up a "Reform Commission" after the 2017 Summer Deaflympics with so many proposals received.
3. When Rebecca ADAMS assumed the role of ICSD president, she assigned Mr. OSUGI the task of continuing to work alongside Ms. AMMONS, Mr. KUSIAK, Mr. Pemha, and Mr. Hensen for a period of approximately two (2) years.
4. ICSD CEO had engaged in communication with the head of the IOC Ethics Officer, and they informed him of the following recommendations:
  • Representation of athletes in the Executive Board
  • Gender diversity among members of the Executive Board
5. During the 2017 Full Congress, the number of Executive Board members was increased from two (2) to four (4), which was in opposition to the ICSD Reform Commission. This issue needs to be addressed and resolved.
6. On the recommendation of the IOC ICSD, with the support of the GAISF, conducted assessment of the current state of affairs, the results of which showed that the ICSD is in a stable position, while there are a number of areas of governance that should be addressed urgently. The outcomes of the GAISF assessment played a significant role in the revision process of the fundamental documents of the ICSD. Independent lawyers were engaged to collaborate on the Constitution, Bylaws, and Code of Ethics. As of January 2021, the work on the documents was concluded, and the finalized package was handed over to the Reform Commission. The IOC, in an advisory capacity, stressed the significance of concluding the process of implementing changes and aligning new documents with current realities and existing standards. The final draft version of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Code of Ethics was duly submitted to the IOC. The ICSD received the revised version on 29 September 2021, which was two (2) months prior to the commencement of this Extraordinary Congress.
7. HUN: Hungary requested clarification regarding the specific changes and differences between the old and new versions of the documents.
  1. Constitution
  2. Bylaws
  3. Code of Ethics
8. Mr. OSUGI: provided an explanation, stating that since the 2019 Full Congress, the ICSD Reform Commission had diligently worked on the assigned tasks after Rebecca ADAMS handed over the responsibility to him. The ICSD Reform Commission had actively collaborated with federation members, association members, and Board members. The Commission diligently gathered their comments to ensure a more transparent and inclusive process. The ICSD Reform Commission submitted the documents to the ICSD office in September 2020. Focusing on the key modifications that have been implemented:
  1. Part 1: Associate Members and internal Commissions
    • Association Members possess the right to vote;
    • Association Members get the right to manage bid processes for world championships in their sport;
    • Increase in the number of Commissions.
  2. Part 2: Executive Board Composition
    • Old version of Consitution: one (1) ICSD President, two (2) ICSD Vice Presidents, two (2) ICSD Board members, one (1) Athlete Commission, and four (4) Regional Confederation presidents, which means a total of ten (10) votes.
    • New version of Constitution: one (1) ICSD President, two (2) ICSD Vice Presidents, four (4) ICSD Board members, one (1) Athlete Commission, and four (4) Regional Confederation presidents, which means a total of 12 votes.
9. Mr. GRIGORYAN: elaborated on his knowledge of the old version, which was presented to the ICSD Board meeting in September 2019 by Mr. Hensen. He expressed his and other suspended Executive Board members' lack of awareness regarding the new version, which had not allowed them sufficient time to prepare in advance. Mr. GRIGORYAN highlighted that, until July 2020, Mr. KIHTIR had participated in discussions with the ICSD Reform Commission but received no further updates.
10. Ms. ADAMS: provided insight into her involvement in the ICSD Reform process, recalling her role as the Chair of the Reform Commission in 2008 while working with the Croatia Deaf Sports Federation. She stressed the significance of including regional presidents to gain their perspectives and sought feedback from federation members. Rebecca expressed regret over her subsequent removal from the commission and the perceived lack of effective leadership. She firmly stated her non-support for these developments, which she believed contributed to the failure of ICSD Governance.
11. HUN: proposed a focused exploration of the disparities between the two versions under consideration before proceeding with a vote for approval.
12. Mr. HENSEN: mentioned that the proposed amendments can be modified and approved during the Extraordinary Congress, if necessary. He shared his discontentment about the unexpected and inadequately clarified termination of the Reform Commission.
13. CAN: highlighted that the two versions are quite similar, with the exception of three additional points in the new version. These new points provide much more explicit details compared to the previous version.
  
  • Association Members rights
  • ICSD Executive Board composition
  • Regional Confederation presidents voting right in the Executive Board
14. Mr. KIHTIR explained that around March 2020, Kang CHEN asked him to review the reform documents and recommended changing two articles with the ICSD Reform Commission, which did in June 2020 before the issues with the ICSD Board members began. In February 2021, Yakup KIHTIR was invited to discuss the reform documents' progress with the ICSD Regional Confederation presidents a few times and was told that only two changes had been made:
  
  • Associate Members rights
  • Twelve (12) votes consisted of seven (7) ICSD Board members, one (1) Athlete Commission, and four (4) Regional Confederation Presidents.
  
  Mr. KIHTIR emphasized the significance of this Extraordinary Congress endorsing the new version, as it would prove beneficial for the future.
15. Mr. STAVRAKAKIS: highlighted that the Regional Confederation presidents specifically requested Mr. KIHTIR to address this matter with Mr. CHEN. The purpose was to advocate for each Regional Confederation president to be granted four votes.
16. HUN: proposed to streamline the discussion and save time by focusing on only three porposed amendments to the Constitution.
17. CAN: pointed out to do votes for the following motions:
  
  • Association Members voting rights;
  • ICSD Executive Board composition: one (1) President, two (2) Vice Presidents, four (4) members at large, four (4) Regional Presidents, one (1) Athlete representative;
  • Regional Confederation presidents voting right.
  
  Vote to process the discussion the following motion from 11.6.14
  53 delegates at present Note: 27 votes to pass
  Yes = 47, No = 0, Abstention = 2
  Result - Passed
A. Associate Member: Reform proposal: Article # 3.3.1., 7.5. {7.5.1., 7.5.2., 7.5.3.}, 5.
1. DIBF: On behalf of the four (4) Associate Members, namely DIBF, DIFA, WDGF, and ICCD, the DIBF would like to address the new proposed reform documents. The proposal was initially submitted to the ICSD in 2007 and has been discussed continuously until 2015. Therefore, we believe it would be appropriate to handle this matter within the reform framework. According to the updated version of the reform documents, there are three essential points that we previously discussed, which we must include in the proposal.
  
  • To enable a Technical Director affiliated with the associate member to represent and manage the Deaflympics competitions on behalf of the said associate member.
  • To establish a cooperative relationship with the ICSD for organizing the World Championships.
2. USA: opposed granting voting rights to Associate Members to prevent any potential biases that may arise from individuals from the same country influencing additional votes. However, the United States does support the participation of Associate Members in organizing the World Deaf Championships.
3. DIBF: emphasized the importance of neutrality and professionalism for Associate Members, and pointed out that favoritism should not be allowed or tolerated.
4. Mr BUEROV: mentioned that Associate Members should manage their anti-doping programs under the supervision of ICSD.
5. DIBF: DIBF has been in communication with ICSD Anti-Doping Commission regarding WADA, clarifying that competitions are conducted under the jurisdiction of ICSD. Consequently, ICSD holds the responsibility for anti-doping control. Therefore, if DIBF organizes a competition, it is accountable for anti-doping matters alongside WADA, rather than relying on the ICSD.
6. HUN: expressed support for granting Associate Members equal voting rights and emphasized that Associate Members should also have the opportunity to become candidates for membership on the ICSD Board, similar to the processes observed within the IOC and IPC.
7. Mr. MATHER clarified that the existing Constitution does not specify the required voting threshold for passing amendments. Therefore, the decision will be left to the floor for determination.
8. NED: proposed that Associate Members should pursue independence, taking on the responsibility of managing anti-doping procedures through direct collaboration with WADA. Additionally, they suggested the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ICSD specifically for organizing the World Championships. This approach would offer Federation Members the option to affiliate themselves with the Associate Members instead.
9. ISR: provided an explanation that during the 2003 Congress, DIBF became an Associate Member entrusted with organizing various aspects such as hotels, venues, referees. Therefore, proposal is for removal of the term "Technical" from the regulations.
10. The Swiss lawyer highlighted that a 75% vote is necessary solely for amending the Constitution. Thus, a 50% vote would suffice for the three mentioned motions.
11. Vote for motions A. Associate Member with a right to vote: 53 delegates at present
  Note: 27 votes to pass
  Yes = 39, No = 10, Abstention = 2
  Result - Passed
12. Mr. Hensen explained that when he was in the Reform Commission, he gathered the details from several federation members. He has noticed that most of them favored reducing from four (4) to two (2). The number of commissions has increased to seven (7), meaning each commission will have its own responsibility to deal with its issues.
13. Mr. LUSIC: pointed out the necessity for the total number of Executive Board members to be an odd number rather than even.
14. Mr. KIHTIR: reminded the importance of ensuring gender diversity within the ICSD Executive Board by actively considering the inclusion of female members
15. HUN: emphasized that Associate Members now possess equal voting rights as Federation Members. Furthermore, they proposed that the four (4) Regional Confederation presidents should be included as members of the ICSD, with voting right.
16. Ms ADAMS: expressed the belief that a greater representation on the ICSD Executive Board would lead to increased diversity and a more balanced representation. She pointed out the need for greater inclusion of women and individuals from diverse backgrounds within the Executive Board. She spoke in favor of increasing the number of executive committee members to four (4) Members at Large.
17. Mr. GRIGORYAN: expressed his and the Swiss lawyer agreement with the comments made by Hungary.
18. TUR: Turkey noted that while the Regional Confederation presidents previously did not have voting rights, it wasn't a problem. However, the recent change to give one (1) vote to the four (4) Regional Confederation presidents has raised some issues. Therefore, Turkey suggested reverting back to the previous arrangement where the Regional Confederation presidents would not have voting rights.
19. ARG: highlighted the importance of granting voting rights to the four (4) Regional Confederation presidents.
20. HUN: explained that if the number of ICSD Executive Board members is reduced to two (2), the Presidents of the Regional Confederations should not have voting rights. However, if Executive Board consists of four (4) members at large, the Presidents of the Regional Confederations can hold four (4) votes. To ensure balance, Hungary further proposed the creation of an additional Athletic Commission.
21. IND: expressed that a higher number of members leads to better balance and representation.
22. Ms. ADAMS: emphasized that any changes discussed today should be considered for review by the ICSD Executive Board members in preparation for the upcoming Extraordinary Congress. It is important to note that these changes will not have an immediate effect.
23. FIN: expressed support for Hungary's comments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the Regional Confederation presidents and the ICSD Executive Board members. Additionally, Finland stressed the need for enhanced transparency by sharing the Executive Board’ meeting minutes with all members to ensure better transparency.
24. Mr. Bonnassiolle: emphasized the significance of fostering effective communication and collaboration between the ICSD Executive Board members and the Regional Confederation presidents. This is particularly crucial when organizing regional sporting qualification competitions in conjunction with the Associate Members. Mr. Bonnassiolle strongly believes that granting voting rights to the regional confederations is essential to ensure their active participation and contribution.
25. HUN: clarified that while other international organizations may have voting systems on their Executive Boards where regional representatives attending do not possess voting rights, the ICSD is not obligated to follow their approach. Hungary emphasized that the ICSD can establish its unique approach. Hungary suggested that delegates be elected as ICSD Executive Board members to represent the organization with greater authority, while still maintaining a balanced and equal representation. Proposed structure:
  1. One (1) ICSD President, two (2) ICSD Vice Presidents, two (2) ICSD Board members, and one (1) ICSD Athletes Commission representative, which would amount to a total of six (6) votes. In this arrangement, the Regional Confederation presidents would not possess voting rights. Hungary emphasized that the proposed structure would give the Board Members 60% power in decision-making processes. OR
  2. One (1) ICSD President, two (2) ICSD Vice Presidents, four (4) ICSD Board members, and one (1) ICSD Athlethes Commission representative, resulting in a total of eight (8) votes. Additionally, in this arrangement, the four (4) Regional Confederation presidents would be granted voting rights, contributing four (4) additional votes. Thus, the total number of votes would be twelve (12), with the Board Members holding a 66% share of the voting power.
26. GER: pointed out the significance of conducting the vote promptly and has expressed support for Hungary's comments.
27. Mr. PARGAR: highlighted the importance of having an odd number of votes rather than an even number. Consequently, he suggested reducing the number of ICSD Executive Board members from four (4) to three (3). This proposed change will be the subject of discussion at the next Extraordinary Congress.
28. Ms. ADAMS: shared her initial intention to organize a dedicated workshop alongside the Full Congress during the reform commission. This workshop aimed to provide an opportunity for delegates to discuss the proposed reforms in detail, ensuring a clear understanding before the voting process. She proposed conducting this workshop as a preliminary step.
29. Mr. MATHER: clarified that the decision of when the outcome of this vote would take effect would be determined by the Extraordinary Congress. It would be within their discretion to decide whether the implementation should occur immediately or at a later specified date. Emphasized that any amendments or modifications to the Constitution and Bylaws would not take effect immediately. He stated that it is necessary for the ICSD Legal Commission to finalize these changes before disseminating them.
  
  Vote on the motion: decrease the number of ICSD Board members at large from four (4) to two (2):
  Yes = 24, No = 24, Abstention = 2
  Result - Not Passed
  
  The composition of the Executive Board remains consistent, consisting of four (4) members at large who retain their voting rights.
  
  Vote on the motion: Grant voting rights to the four (4) Regional Confederation presidents.
  Yes = 28, No = 24, Abstention = 0
  Result - Passed
  
  The four (4) Regional Confederation presidents possess voting privileges.
30. DIBF: enquired whether any modifications made to the Constitution would automatically apply to the Bylaws as well.
31. Mr. REBROV: clarified that the Bylaws provide additional details and specifications for each aspect of the Constitution. Consequently, any revisions made to the Constitution will result in modifications to the corresponding Bylaws. Following this process, the revised documents will be submitted to the ICSD Legal Commission for review before being distributed to all members.
32. Mr. MATHER: emphasized that the decision to use either "open" or "ballot" votes would be determined by the Extraordinary Congress.
  
  Vote on conducting an "open" vote. 54 delegates at present.
  Note: 28 votes to pass
  Yes = 45, No = 5, Abstention = 0
  Result - Passed
  
  "Open" vote can be conducted.
  
  Vote on the approval of the remaining Reform proposals:
  Note: Requires 75% (41 votes) to pass
  Yes = 46, No = 5, Abstention = 0
  Result - Passed
  
  According to the Constitution, the board members have the power to deal with Bylaws.
  
  Vote on the approval of the Code of Ethics
  Note: Requires 50% + 1 (28 votes) to pass
  Yes = 48, No = 0, Abstention = 3
  Result - Passed

The Session ended at 19:00

29 November 2021

The session started at 09:35

Roll Call to present countries

Argentina
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
China
Chinese Taipei
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Ecuador
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Great Britain
Greece
Hungary
India
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
Korea
Kosovo
Latvia
Lebanon
Lithuania
Malaysia
Netherlands
Norway
Pakistan
Poland
Portugal
Russian Committee of Deaf Sports
Saudi Arabia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Thailand
Turkey
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States
The Swiss lawyer explained that the associate members have the right to vote immediately after yesterday's session, and it is separate from other Constitutions and Bylaws.

51 members are currently present at this Extraordinary Congress
Two (2) members present via Zoom
Two (2) Associate members (DIBF and DIFA)
Totaling 55 members
Agenda

Mr. GRIGORYAN: suggests swapping the order of the agenda to prioritize the Deaflympics discussion before addressing ICSD Governance. This proposal comes after Rio has withdrawn its bid for the Deaflympics, which has now been awarded to Caxias do Sul.

Vote to approve to amend the agenda:
Note: Requires 50% +1 (28 votes) to pass
Yes = 19, No = 27, Abstention = 6
Result - Not Passed

The agenda remains the same.
ICSD Governance
1. Ms. ADAMS: provided an overview of the events that transpired since the 2019 Congress in Italy. She noted that Kang CHEN was elected as the ICSD President during that time, and the ICSD Board members subsequently selected the Vice President of World Sports. Ms. ADAMS emphasized the importance of understanding the subsequent developments that have taken place.
2. Rebecca ADAMS pointed out that yesterday session:
  1. The accounts from 2013 to 2019 have been approved
  2. Associate Members have the right to vote
  3. The number of ICSD Board members to remain the same as (four) 4
  4. Four (4) Regional Confederation presidents receive the right to vote
  5. The whole Reform has been approved
  6. The Board members will deal with Bylaws
  7. Code of Ethics has been approved
3. HUN: proposed that it is essential for everyone to focus on the issues in three (3) phases.
  1. Past [Phase 1] - We listen to what has happened in the past from each party. We need to set up an investigation committee to gather all materials and carry out the investigation ready for the report at the next Extraordinary Congress.
  2. Present [Phase 2] - We can discuss the current issues.
  3. Future [Phase 3] - We need to confirm from the ICSD Legal Commission on four (4)-year terms that should have been by the end of December 2021. We need to have ICSD Board members lead us to the Deaflympics.
  Vote for debates:
  Yes = 51, No = 0, Abstention =
  Result - Passed
4. Agreed to have a ten (10)-minute debate from former ICSD President Kang CHEN, ICSD Board members, and Regional Confederation presidents.
5. Mr. CHEN explained that he was elected the ICSD President during the 2019 Extraordinary Congress in Italy.
  1. We agreed to focus on accounts and Reform only.
  2. Mr. MATHER pointed out during the last Extraordinary Congress that we have suspended the Constitution and handed the power to the ICSD Board members to appoint the ICSD Vice President of World Sports.
  3. Mr. CHEN has sent out his official letter of explanation to all federation members.
  4. The ICSD Board members appointed Ms. ADAMS to be the ICSD President in 2018 after Mr. Rukhledev resigned from ICSD President.
  5. During the ICSD Board meeting in Antalya, Turkey, I discussed replacing Ms. ADAMSS as the ICSD president. We agreed to appoint Mr. PERAZZOLO, who represented PANAMDES president, to become the ICSD Vice-President of World Sports to work with all ICSD Technical Directors up to the following Full/Extraordinary Congress in Italy.
  6. Mr. PERAZZOLO has worked with ICSD Technical Directors very well, and we needed to work with Brazil for the Deaflympics with only one (1) year left. We felt it was essential for all ICSD Technical Directors to work effectively with the Deaflympics Organizing Committee and the ICSD.
  7. On the morning of the Closing Ceremony of the 2019 Winter Deaflympics, Mr. CHEN asked for an urgent board meeting due to the upcoming holidays, and everyone will not be available. During the ICSD Board meeting, Mr. Kang raised the appointment of Mr. PERAZZOLO to be the ICSD Vice President of World Sports. He admitted that it was a close vote with one of the Board members abstentions and four (4) Regional Confederation presidents who could only give one (1) voice that resulted in Mr. PERAZZOLO winning by one (1) vote.
  8. In January 2020, Covid-19 impacted the world, and we had Zoom meetings to discuss the World Championships, Extraordinary Congress, accounts, Reform, etc.
  9. In March 2020, Mr. CHEN had a severe health issue, so he had to allocate the tasks to the board members to deal with.
  10. He has planned to resign in April 2020 and has already informed the Taiwan government. Some ICSD Board members were also aware of this, but he held it back despite having already written a resignation letter. In June 2020, he was about to submit the letter but decided to postpone it again.
  11. He observed the progress on the account and reform when the IOC was seriously warning us to resolve those two critical issues. In September 2021, when he could not continue and needed someone capable of taking a huge responsibility, he handed in his resignation letter on 5 September 2021 with the Board members' approval.
  12. The Deaflympics bid was discussed between Caxias do Sul and Brazil. We had to wait until February 2020, when Brazil had no further progress to host it. At that time, Caxias do Sul was the only one who had submitted the necessary documents. Hence, we asked Mr. PERAZZOLO to get the Organizing Committee to work with the Brazilian Deaf Sports Federation from around April 2020 that progressed well up to September 2020.
  13. Mr. KIHTIR pointed out that only five (5) ICSD Board members: Kang CHEN, Gustavo PERAZZOLO, Jack LAMBERTON, Marijo LUSIC, and himself, attended the meeting along with just two (2) Regional Confederation presidents: Iosif STAVRAKAKIS and Mohamad MADOUN, on 21 December 2019.
  14. He confirmed that the ICSD Board members had agreed for Mr. CHEN to use his power to appoint the ICSD Vice President of World Sports. Afterward, there was no objection that Mr. PERAZZOLO had been appointed as the ICSD Vice President of World Sports.
  15. He said that Mr. PERAZZOLO attended the meetings up to Mr. CHEN's resignation. From that point, the dispute started as Mr. PERAZZOLO, the ICSD Vice President of World Sports that would automatically become the ICSD President despite not being elected at the Extraordinary Congress.
  16. We had a meeting to discuss filling the president's vacation. We agreed that the four (4) Regional Confederation presidents submit their suggestions to the Executive Board members within a week to resolve them.
  17. The ICSD Board members received a letter from the Regional Confederation presidents saying that the ICSD President was elected at the Extraordinary Congress.
  18. This was where the problem began between Mr. PERAZZOLO and the rest of the ICSD Board members in July 2020 that led to suspension to the ICSD Board members hip to this Extraordinary Congress.
6. Mr. GRIGORYAN said that he did not attend the 2019 Full Congress in Italy and asked Mr. CHEN to send him the ICSD Board's meeting minutes, but to this day, he has not yet received them.
  1. He pointed out that without the ICSD Board's meeting minutes, he could not comment on it. When Mr. CHEN resigned, the ICSD Vice President of World Sports automatically replaced the vacated president according to Constitution 9.3.2.1 that caused problems for us as we did not receive any official letter of resignation from Kang CHEN.
  2. We discussed bringing this up at this Extraordinary Congress. We had invited both Donalda AMMONS and Adam KOSA to help resolve it, but they had requested a letter from Mr. PERAZZOLO to authorize them to resolve the issues.
  3. He said they had not received it from Mr. PERAZZOLO, so they could not continue with it. The ICSD Board members decided to pass on their request to have an Extraordinary Congress and the venue to the Regional Confederation presidents and heard nothing afterward.
7. Mr. LUSIC pointed out that Mr. CHEN had kept a secret from us, and we were unaware of his plan to resign. He was one of the presidential candidates in 2017 and 2019 but withdrew after Mr. Rukhledev, and Mr. CHEN begged him to withdraw his candidacy.
  1. During the last meeting in 2019, we discussed voting for the ICSD Vice President of World Sports and pointed out that Mr. Bonnassiolle Pedro Squella did not support Mr. PERAZZOLO. So, he was not officially the ICSD Vice President of World Sports that caused a big problem for the ICSD.
  2. He thanked Ms. KYOSEN, who has worked with the ICSD Executive Board, explaining how the issues began with the ICSD Executive Board members and Regional Confederation presidents.
8. Ms. ADAMS pointed out that the ICSD Governance is from the Constitution and Bylaws. According to Swiss laws, only registered persons can approve them. However, some ICSD Executive Board members do not have their names to be registered which means any past approvals, including the elections, were not valid and have breached the Constitution.
  1. According to Swiss law, if a person changes, the registered name must be changed immediately, but this did not happen.
  2. How could the ICSD Executive Board members say Mr. PERAZZOLO automatically became the ICSD President after a letter was sent out on 11 September 2021 when Mr. CHEN resigned according to Bylaws 3.2.f. An email was received saying that all ICSD Executive Board members were suspended.
  3. Mr. PERAZZOLO has roles as the ICSD President and working for Organizing Committee, which is not normal.
  4. Mr. PERAZZOLO's name was not registered yet and was not recognized by Swiss law; therefore, thus, the burden falls on the ICSD Board members.
  5. The ICSD Executive Board members have been removed from the ICSD website, which is not normal.
  6. We have not received the ICSD Board's meeting minutes regarding Mr. PERAZZOLO becoming the ICSD President.
  7. Mr. CHEN was elected as the ISCD President at the 2019 Extraordinary Congress. However, his name was not registered; therefore, he was not the official ICSD President.
  8. When Mr. PERAZZOLO removed four (4) ICSD Executive Board members, he had no power to do so, and he acted illegally, which has breached Swiss law and can sue.
  9. It has been three (3) years since the last Extraordinary Congress. No progress has been made and no information on finance. According to Swiss law, it requires annually, and it was inexcusable for being Covid-19 that has impacted us.
  10. Today, this Extraordinary Congress has a legal problem as the Extraordinary Congress was called by Mr. PERAZZOLO instead of the ICSD Board members, and the agenda was unclear.
9. Mr. Bonnassiolle pointed out that Mr. LUSIC was incorrect by saying that he did not support Mr. PERAZZOLO during the last Board meeting in 2019. He did not attend the meeting because he returned home shortly after the full Congress.
  1. When Mr. CHEN submitted his resignation letter, we had an emergency meeting with full ICSD Board members.
  2. The Regional Confederation presidents left to the ICSD Executive Board members to discuss. They decided Mr. KIHTIR would be the acting Chairman because Mr. PERAZZOLO was "un-elected" of the ICSD Vice President of World Sports.
  3. We had another meeting in June 2021 when Mr. PERAZZOLO asked about his position as the ICSD Vice President of World Sports, and the ICSD Executive Board members told him that he was no longer needed.
  4. During the ICSD Board meeting in September 2021, Mr. KIHTIR announced that he had become the Chairman of all federation members. Mr. PERAZZOLO challenged them to be officially appointed the ICSD Vice President of World Sports. That led both Germany and United States to email all federation members and suggested that four (4) Regional Confederation presidents take their responsibilities to deal with support from many federation members.
  5. Donalda AMMONS and Adam KOSA had been asked to discuss resolving the ongoing issues with the full ICSD Board members, including the Regional Confederation presidents subject to a signed agreement from each of them, but this appeared to fail, so the Regional Confederation presidents decided to abstain.
  6. The ICSD Executive Board members had agreed to allow the Regional Confederation presidents to prepare the Extraordinary Congress within two (2) months, but due to the lack of account and reform materials. It was required to announce a date of the Extraordinary Congress must be at least two (2) months in advance, so this had to be delayed until they had the necessary documents available first.
  7. They discussed the possibility of having one in Turkey in June 2021. They invited Mr. KIHTIR from the ICSD Executive Board members to join the Regional Confederation presidents to have some meetings, and Lausanne has confirmed the place for the Extraordinary Congress.
  8. Mr. STAVRAKAKIS agreed with Mr. KIHTIR's comments. Still, he pointed out that it was just the two of us from the Regional Confederation presidents who were present during the appointment of the ICSD Vice President of World Sports.
  9. Regional Confederation presidents disagree that Adam KOSA and Donalda AMMONS should be involved.
  10. An email was received regarding Mr. KIHTIR being the "Chairman" and was not in the Constitution. Mr. PERAZZOLO pointed out that he was the ICSD Vice President of World Sports, so the Regional Confederation presidents had to deal with this trying to resolve it.
  11. Regional Confederation presidents had to prepare agenda and materials for the Extraordinary Congress. We waited to get a confirmation from the ICSD Executive Board members as to whether or not the Extraordinary Congress would take place in Turkey. During the ICSD Executive Board meeting in September 2021, it was decided by the Regional Confederation Presidents for the Extraordinary Congress to take place in Lausanne, Switzerland. This had led to some revolts from the ICSD Executive Board members to have the Extraordinary Congress in Turkey first and then moved to Rio in Brazil.
  12. Ms. ADAMS objected to Mr. REBROV and his staff Mr. FELLI being involved in the debate as they were not neutral and even suspended.
    
    Vote for Gustavo PERAZZOLO to give his 10 minutes comments:
    Kuwait has added = 56 delegates present
    Note: Requires 50% +1 (29 votes) to pass
    Yes = 45, No = 1, Abstention = 3
    Result - Passed
10. Mr. PERAZZOLO explained that everyone witnessed the comments given by the ICSD Executive Board members, Regional Confederation presidents, and Mr. CHEN. He needs to fill in the critical gaps to understand clearly.
  1. Concerning the registered name, the Board members were aware of this and had been advised to wait to save the costs, which we had accepted, but unfortunately, a person took advantage to intervene.
  2. He worked very hard since he became a member of the Executive Board, and suddenly, one of the ICSD Executive Board members told him to leave, which is a breach of "human rights."
  3. The main reason for suspending the ICSD Executive Board members was breaching "human rights" and getting things to calm down until the Extraordinary Congress. Still, unfortunately, it took a while for this Extraordinary Congress to happen.
  4. Mr. LAMBERTON was not suspended when he was with us when this happened, and we continued to work together before he decided to join them later.
  5. They claimed that they had not received any financial reports, which were inaccurate information as they have been placed on the official ICSD website.
  6. He had accepted emails from the federation members' suggestions for the Regional Confederation presidents to take their responsibilities. He had approved for peace which means the communications between the federation members and Regional Confederation presidents, especially their own regional countries, dealt with.
  7. He communicated with the IOC and their lawyers intensively. They are very aware of the current situation, especially those who had emailed them as they shared the details with him. This has proven that they recognize him as an official person; otherwise, they would not have shared the details. He even received an official letter from the IOC on 16 November 2021.
  Vote for ICSD staff to give their 10 minutes comments:
  Yes = 35, No = 8, Abstention = 8
  Result - Passed
11. Mr. REBROV explained how the issue began in 2018, even before Mr. PERAZZOLO, when Mr. Rukhledev had to step down from ICSD President. He did not sign anything when the ICSD Executive Board members criticized him after a severe incident occurred in Russia.
  1. The Board members appointed Ms. ADAMS as an interim ICSD President, but she has intended to become ICSD President instead with the ICSD Executive Board's approval.
  2. In September 2018, the ICSD Board members, including Mr. CHEN and Ms. ADAMS, met with the IOC requesting how Ms. ADAMS became the ICSD President without the election. Ms. ADAMS said that the ICSD Executive Board had appointed her in which the IOC disapproved. Even GAISF objected to that because it is essential to have an election to appoint an ICSD President, and it was illegal for this to happen.
  3. During the ICSD Executive Board meeting in Antalya, Turkey, the Executive Board members told Mr. REBROV not to attend the ICSD Executive Board meeting. He was informed that Ms. ADAMS decided to step down from ICSD Executive Board member and be an interim ICSD President until the 2019 Congress in Italy.
  4. When Mr. CHEN was elected as the ICSD President, Robert MATHER asked ICSD Executive Board members to have the power to appoint the ICSD Vice President of Word Sports approved at the Extraordinary Congress.
  5. The ICSD Executive Boards appointed Mr. PERAZZOLO as the ICSD Vice President of Word Sports. When Mr. CHEN sent a Happy New Year video message to all federation members, he also mentioned that Mr. PERAZZOLO had been appointed as the ICSD Vice President of Word Sports. No one had complained about anything for a long time until Kang CHEN resigned. Even he had persuaded him to stay longer until the Deaflympics as it would look bad to have too many different ICSD Presidents in a brief period.
  6. He pointed out that it would be better for a relevant person to explain more about the registered names.
  7. He explained that he has no favor in either ICSD Executive Board members or Regional Confederation presidents as the ICSD staff is entirely neutral and has to follow Swiss law.
12. Mr. FELLI explained that he represents the ICSD office, Swiss lawyer, and several other offices.
  1. From the legal perspective, we must respect Bylaws 3.2. states that if the ICSD President resigns, the ICSD Vice President of World Sports will automatically take place as the ICSD President, which means Mr. PERAZZOLO is officially recognized by the IOC, banks, even Swiss law up to the next Extraordinary Congress.
  2. A question for Ms. ADAMS, how could she become the ICSD President and the Chair of the Legal Commission at the same time? This is a conflict of interest.
  3. According to Swiss law, a company must be registered with the name of the person responsible for managing it, including the signature rights for the banks, etc. Ms. ADAMS's name is on the registration record, and she wrote a letter with two signatures, including herself and another person who is not on the registration record. The second signed person has caused a problem as it breached the legal rights.
  4. Several emails to an IOC personal, Mr. McConnell, were written in Portuguese, which caused some confusion.
  5. He has worked with ICSD for five (5) years and has noticed some changes, but this has gone out of control. One was from Australia called Ms. Irena Farinacci, who claimed that she was working for the ICSD staff member and contacted the bank, hotel, and the IOC to inform them that she was managing the ICSD. He was shocked by her behavior, and he did not know who it was. She has seriously interfered with our office.
  6. The media caused some confusion on the Deaflympics venues Caxias and Rio.
  7. He is aware that those ICSD Executive Board members are being suspended, and usually, there is a proceeding for the suspension to lift.
13. Ms. ADAMS said that this Extraordinary Congress is not legal because Mr. PERAZZOLO is not the official president and should be void and null.
  1. Robert MATHER asked Ms. ADAMS why and she said that we could not count the votes in this Extraordinary Congress.
  2. Ms. ADAMS explained that she had her name registered.
14. A letter from BDO is displayed.
  1. Mr. REBROV explained that BDO is a legal company that represents the IOC.
  2. Hungary explained that according to the letter from BDO, if an ICSD President resigns, the ICSD Vice President of World Sports is to replace the ICSD President. However, from the legal point of view, we need to know what has happened precisely back in 2019 and who attended the ICSD Board meeting to clarify due to the lack of ICSD Board's meeting minutes. If no ICSD Board's meeting minutes were available, then why?
  3. DIBF wanted to know why Ms. ADAMS did not mention that yesterday at the beginning of this Extraordinary Congress. This was disrespectful. At the 2019 Extraordinary Congress in Italy, the delegates had proposed to have an Extraordinary Congress and not made by the ICSD Board members themself; therefore, the ICSD office has the right to prepare it, which means the delegates called for this Extraordinary Congress.
  4. Ms. ADAMS accepted at that point, and she said that the correct procedures must follow before approval. She was sorry for this to happen.
  5. Robert MATHER explained that the ICSD of Legal Commission did not attend past ICSD Executive Board meetings, so he suggested allowing a member of the ICSD of Legal Commission in the future meeting to guide them in the right direction.
  Vote for a process for questions:
  Yes = 49, No = 0, Abstention = 2
  Result - Passed
15. Question time
  1. Great Britain pointed out that the ICSD Executive Board members have five (5) votes, and the ICSD Vice President of World Sports with Regional Confederation presidents had two (2) votes. According to the Constitution, the ICSD Executive Boards have the power to decide to accept that or not.
  2. Q1. How did the procedure of the ICSD Governance work?
    1. Mr. STAVRAKAKIS pointed out that this has already been explained earlier that the Regional Confederation presidents received a signed letter from the ICSD Board members to have the power until the Extraordinary Congress.
    2. Great Britain pointed out that the Constitution had failed to meet.
    3. Great Britain said the suspension of the ICSD Executive Board members and ICSD staff did occur. Now they both are here at the Extraordinary Congress.
  3. Q2. How does this procedure work?
    1. Mr. GRIGORYAN explained that the ICSD Boards had given an authorization letter to the Regional Confederation presidents to deal with the Extraordinary Congress only and received no updates yet, and it breached Swiss law.
    2. Great Britain pointed out that according to the Constitution, the ICSD Executive Board has the power to make the decisions. Yesterday during the account reports, it was approved by Extraordinary Congress despite that the ICSD Executive Board members have not seen them as it seemed to be impossible and illegal. The ICSD Executive Board members must know beforehand as it is the responsibility of the ICSD Boards. A member of the Board can sue the ICSD.
  4. Q3. Can they make comments on this?
    1. Mr. LUSIC explained that the ICSD Executive Board members were suspended by a person and asked for the person's name who authorized this.
    2. Canada pointed out that the Regional Confederation presidents had two (2) votes and no votes for the ICSD Executive Boards because they were already suspended. Also, according to Bylaws 3.2.a.vi, the ICSD President has the power to suspend. However, it does not state how many people can be suspended and when this happened, it left just the ICSD president and Regional Confederation presidents to run it. Nothing was mentioned, the suspension's duration, and the actual reason.
  5. Q4. Can Mr. PERAZZOLO answer this?
    1. Mr. PERAZZOLO explained that the ICSD Executive Board members were not suspended immediately but over some time when they had abused power. The rest of the ICSD Executive Board members were violated or abused power which were against "human rights." He pointed out that the ICSD Board members were not five (5), but four (4) as Mr. LAMBERTON was on our side before he switched over. He agreed with the Regional Confederation presidents' suggestion to invite Mr. KIHTIR to pass on the information to the suspended four (4) members.
    2. Mr. KIHTIR confirmed that Jack LAMBERTON, Marijo LUSIC, Kang CHEN, Iosif STAVRAKAKIS, Mohamed MADOUN, and himself were present in the 2019 meeting. The actual votes to appoint the ICSD Vice President of World Sports:
      1. Mr. STAVRAKAKIS: Abstention
      2. Mr. MADOUN: Abstention
      3. Marijo LUSIC: No
      4. Yakup KIHTIR: Yes
      5. Jack LAMBERTON: Abstention
      6. Kang CHEN: Yes
    3. Mr. KIHTIR proposed that Mr. CHEN has the power to announce it, and when it was announced, the ICSD Board members did not receive the ICSD Board's meeting minutes.
    4. Mr. LAMBERTON confirmed that he switched from the ICSD Executive Board member to support the ICSD Board members after having some discussions with them, and he got suspended too afterward.
    5. Mr. GRIGORYAN explained that it was not the first time the ICSD Executive Board members were suspended, but it happened when Mr. Rukhledev was the ICSD President after the 2017 Congress.
    6. Germany explained that during the 2019 Extraordinary Congress, we accepted Belgium's proposal to have an Extraordinary Congress shortly afterward, but it has been delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Mr. CHEN sent his holidays wishes to all federation members. He mentioned that Mr. PERAZZOLO was the ICSD Vice President of World Sports, and everyone assumed this part was done.
  6. Q5. Did the ICSD Executive Board members object to it as no one heard afterward for a while?
    1. It looked terrible when ICSD Executive Board and ICSD staff were suspended. It is time for this Extraordinary Congress to discuss this to resolve by the investigation committee and no point in discussing further what has happened in the past.
    2. The Netherlands was shocked by Ms. ADAMS, who said that this Extraordinary Congress is illegal. We have no power, which means our discussion yesterday on Accounts, Reform, and Association Members was scrapped. This would mean we will have to wait until the new ICSD president has registered before recalling the Extraordinary Congress.
  7. Q6. Did Ms. ADAMS mean this Extraordinary Congress is illegal?
    1. Ms. ADAMS explained that this has been unclear on the registered ICSD president who usually called for the Full/Extraordinary Congress, and it was the ICSD Boards who have organized to obtain Mr. Bergmann as a moderator, but due to communication difficulties and lack of transparency, so she confirmed that it is illegal.
    2. The Netherlands pointed out that at the 2019 Extraordinary Congress, we have asked for the Extraordinary Congress to take place and would like to ask the Swiss lawyer's view on Ms. ADAMS’s comment despite that the ICSD Boards and Germany said we need to move on and not go backward.
  8. Q7. Can the Swiss lawyer confirm that Ms. ADAMS was correct or not?
    1. The Swiss lawyer explained that there had been an unclear about Mr. PERAZZOLO becoming the ICSD Vice President of World Sports due to no ICSD Board's meeting minutes that led to unclear who became the ICSD President after Mr. CHEN's resignation. Also, unclear on the authorization to have the power to suspend the ICSD Executive Board members. He felt this was not a suitable procedure due to the lack of signed ICSD Board's meeting minutes. He pointed out that Swiss law needs a registered person who has the authorization to do so, but since 2019 still unclear; therefore, it has breached the Swiss law.
    2. Mr. FELLI pointed out that he has the ICSD Board's meeting minutes confirming that Mr. PERAZZOLO was appointed as the ICSD Vice President of World Sports. The ICSD Board's meeting minutes showed that Mr. PERAZZOLO was appointed as the ICSD Vice President of World Sports was displayed on the screen, so the ICSD has not breached Swiss law. He also pointed out that an ICSD Executive Board's letter has two signatures, and one of them was not a registered user, so this means it has breached Swiss law.
    3. The Netherlands asked if anyone could fully understand the Swiss lawyer's comments. Ms. ADAMS said it was illegal, and the Swiss lawyer did not say if it was unlawful or not.
    4. The Swiss lawyer explained that he was unclear who the officially registered user is since this has not been updated, leading to some confusion. The ICSD Board's meeting minutes showed without a signature, which was not good, so he could not say if the Extraordinary Congress was illegal or not.
    5. Mr. FELLI pointed out that the letter from Ms. ADAMS and another person who was not a registered user signed to remove Mr. REBROV has breached Swiss law. According to Swiss law, there must be two registered signatures.
  9. Q8. How could Ms. ADAMS do that?
    1. Hungary explained the lack of the majority vote for Mr. PERAZZOLO to become the ICSD Vice President of World Sports at the 2019 Extraordinary Congress. The ICSD Board members caused the problem and proposed to have this Extraordinary Congress legally.
    2. Mr. PERAZZOLO wanted to respond to Hungary's confusion and said that:
      1. Ms. ADAMS made the ICSD Board meetings difficult by refusing to discuss various topics.
      2. The ICSD Executive Board members amended bylaws themselves.
      3. His votes were from Kang CHEN, Yakup KIHTIR, the Regional Confederation presidents, but Marijo LUSIC and Jack LAMBERTON abstained.
    3. Mr. Stavrakikas pointed out that Mr. LUSIC did vote "No" at first, then decided to hand it over to Mr. CHEN and the same as for the Regional Confederation presidents.
    4. DIBF wanted to point out to the Netherlands, and the Swiss lawyer regarding the Constitution 9.2.2.3 states "be signed by the President of the ICSD or all of the Full Members making the request for the Extraordinary Congress, as the case requires" and asked the Swiss lawyer to confirm this Extraordinary Congress is official and legal.
      1. Mr. REBROV confirmed that DIBF was correct as it was called by the 2019 Extraordinary Congress delegates and not the ICSD Board members.
    5. DIBF pointed out that Ms. ADAMS wasted time bringing that unnecessary issue up.
    6. The Swiss lawyer confirmed that it is true according to Constitution 9.2.2.3 but must give three (3) months notice, including Zoom due to Covid-19, and the question is who leads it.
    7. Hungary has already suggested having an investigation committee with full access to gathering all documents from the individuals, ICSD Board members, Regional Confederation presidents, and ICSD secretary. Also, at least 50% being here, has passed the required quorum to approve this Extraordinary Congress is legal. It is time to think about the future for the sake of the ICSD, and please don't think of going to the court as we need to be united; otherwise, ICSD will be buried.
  10. Hungary wanted to make two (2) proposals:
    1. To set up an investigation committee.
    2. To vote to add "Extraordinary Congress to be legal" in the agenda requires 75% votes.
  11. Canada supported Hungary's proposal and should involve ICSD Executive Board members and Regional Confederation presidents.
  12. Great Britain asked for clarification on the law procedure on how yesterday the account reports were approved despite Ms. ADAMS and the ICSD Executive Boards objected to it.
  13. DIBF pointed out that those delegates who vote yes would mean they are thinking of the deaf athletes, and those who are not would mean the possible end of the ICSD. It is important to remember what Hungary had explained recently.
Investigation Committee
1. Ms. ADAMS supported having an independent person, not the ICSD people, ICSD Board members, or ICSD staff. She wanted a professional Swiss lawyer based in Switzerland.
2. Mr. MADOUN pointed out that a private lawyer would be costly and suggested appointing some from the floor.
3. Hungary explained that those involved in the investigation committee would only investigate the past issues to gather all facts and then report the findings to the following Full/Extraordinary Congress in (three) 3 possibilities to decide on the next step
  1. To learn from the mistakes for future reference.
  2. Take the matter further with a lawyer.
  3. No further action.
4. Mr. BUEROV pointed out that we must respect the Constitution. Those three (3) ICSD Executive Board members, not related to yesterday but two (2) years ago when they were exhausted from their roles, must also be investigated as they had no rights to represent ICSD.
5. The United States suggested the investigation committee collects on the legal procedure, ethics, and questions from the federation members.
6. Robert MATHER explained that he was unclear on how to proceed regarding the suspended members. Usually, they should remain suspended until we receive the finding report before answering. He also pointed out that we could not protect each suspension member.
7. Germany asked Robert MATHER if we could continue acting ICSD Executive Board members while the investigation committee is working on it.
8. Robert MATHER explained that currently, we have no ICSD Executive Board members, and according to the Constitution, until the next Full/Extraordinary Congress for the election. He pointed out that elections are a part of the ICSD Governance and asked the delegates if they want to go ahead with the election now until the next Congress as it is essential to have ICSD Board members now:
  1. Vote for the existing ICSD Executive Board members up to the next Congress.
  2. Vote for new ICSD Board members up to the next Congress. It would be up to the delegates to decide it.
9. Germany asked Robert MATHER to vote for the suspended ICSD Board members.
10. Robert MATHER explained that they could be free to resume their positions, but due to the issues in 2019, the ICSD President and ICSD Vice President of World Sports need to be elected.
11. Mr. GRIGORYAN supported Hungary and selected some from the floor to be the investigation committee members.
12. Mr. REBROV wanted to know if we should use the Code of Ethics Commission or not since it was approved yesterday.
13. Mr. REBROV pointed out that it was agreed to have Full Congress within three (3) months after the Deaflympics at the last Full Congress.
14. Hungary totally agreed with Robert MATHER's comments on the elections, and it is essential to vote to set up the investigation committee.
  1. Existing ICSD Executive Board members remain, but according to the Constitution, the interim ICSD president cannot be continued, so we must elect an ICSD President and ICSD Vice President for World Sports until the next Full/Extraordinary Congress.
  2. ICSD Executive Board election until the next Full/Extraordinary Congress. Hungary is in favor of option A.
15. Hungary pointed out whatever the outcome, they will have a limitation of power and need to focus on three (3) tasks:
  1. Summer Deaflympics in 2022
  2. Congress preparation
  3. Election preparation
16. Canada asked the ICSD Executive Board members and Mr. PERAZZOLO if they would guarantee to work together for seven (7) to eight (8) months until the next Full/Extraordinary Congress or not? We need to know now. Four (4) Board members said yes, Gustavo said it would be hard to do so, and Rebecca on Zoom said yes.
17. Canada asked Robert MATHER to confirm if the votes are a part of the ICSD Governance or not.
18. Hungary proposed to have three (3) persons who must follow the Code of Ethics on the investigation committee:
  1. A legal commission member
  2. A delegate must act neutrally
  3. A reform commission member
  Vote to create the Code of Ethics on the investigation committee:
  Note: Requires 50% + 1 (29 votes) to pass
  Yes = 48, No = 1, Abstention = 2
  Result - Passed
19. Legal Commission:
  1. Robert MATHER said that it would be a conflict of interest for him as he has been involved in the past, and it would be not neutral for him, so that he would ask one of his ICSD of the Legal Commission members instead.
    Vote to accept for Robert MATHER to pick one of his ICSD Legal Commission members:
    Yes = 49, No = 1, Abstention = 1
    Result - Passed
20. Delegate:
  1. Three (3) delegates have been nominated:
    1. Gergely TAPOLCZAI (Hungary)
    2. Jeff MANSFIELD (United States)
    3. Igor VALERIO (Brazil)
    Jeff MANSFIELD and Igor VALERIO withdrew.
    
    Vote to approve Gergely TAPOLCZAI:
    Yes = 52, No = 1, Abstention = 1
    Result - Passed
21. Reform Commission:
  1. Yutaka OSUGI explained that three (3) Reform Commission members were present. Mark KUSIAK from Canada is one of them and has been accepted as a member of the investigation committee.
  Vote to approve Mark KUSIAK:
  Yes = 52, No = 0, Abstention = 1
  Result - Passed
Governance election:
1. Robert MATHER explained that the governance is already on the agenda, and bylaws do not mention the election is a part of the ICSD Governance, so it means it is required 75% vote. He believed that it was a part of the ICSD Governance. It would be best to add that on the agenda that still requires a 75% vote to be safe.
2. Ms. ADAMS felt it was wrong for this Extraordinary Congress to have an election because of no procedure to nominate the candidates three (3) months beforehand. This has never happened in the past. Hence, she objected to this and proposed that the board members remain until the next Full Congress. She pointed out that the ICSD Board members should appoint an ICSD President and ICSD Vice President of World Sports.
3. The Netherlands said he is aware that many delegates are fed up with Ms. ADAMS, who said that the ICSD Board members should stay and mentioned that this Extraordinary Congress was not official. He said that she should resign.
4. Argentina proposed that the ICSD Board members stay with only five (5) months left to the 2021 Summer Deaflympics for the sake of our athletes.
5. Slovenia pointed out that the 4-year term from 2017 to 2021 and nothing is mentioned in the Constitution allowing to extend the 4-year term so suggested having an interim ICSD Board election with a limited power until the next Full Congress under an exceptional circumstance.
6. Hungary proposed to add an election on the agenda that requires 75% vote first and then vote for A (ICSD Board to remain, but to elect for an ICSD President and ICSD Vice President of World Sports) or B (full ICSD Executive Board election) with limitation of power:
  1. Summer Deaflympics in 2022
  2. Congress preparation
  3. Election preparation
7. Germany proposed for all, including Mr. PERAZZOLO, to stay as the ICSD President because he has complete information on the upcoming Summer Deaflympics in 2022 to share with the suspended ICSD Board members but just to elect one (1) person to fill in as the ICSD Vice President of World Sports.
8. Turkey proposed that all ICSD Board members stay and that the 4-year term should reflect the Deaflympics period but elect for the ICSD president only.
9. Croatia supported Hungary and Germany, but according to Swiss law, registered users must be elected and suggested voting Mr. PERAZZOLO to remain on the ICSD Board member. Still, the current registered user can become interim ICSD president until the next Full Congress.
10. Brazil wanted to understand Slovenia regarding the 4-year term without any extension because of their budget plan. She pointed out that she would not support Mr. PERAZZOLO unless she could discuss with him first.
11. Mr. FELLI explained that a new ICSD President had been elected. It would require an official letter confirming the president's name to become the registered user. He also pointed out that some of them have become ICSD Executive Board members without the support from their federation members and did not respond to the questions required by the IOC. All details must be open to everyone on the official ICSD website. Even his name is shown, he is responsible for everything, including communication with the IOC.
12. Mr. FELLI pointed out that whoever wants to become an ICSD Board member must first have an official letter of support from their national Deaf Sports Federation.
13. Portugal asked if a member of the ICSD Board changes their status, does it mean the details need to be updated too?
14. Mr. FELLI confirmed that this was correct, and any changes were made, must inform him to update the details according to Swiss law.
15. Denmark made an important query with Mr. REBROV, and he had a good look at a letter from the IOC saying that they would not accept if the ICSD Board members remained. They must be elected or re-elected with a letter of support from their own country. He also pointed out that they will withdraw any consent if we do not respect the IOC.
16. An official confidential letter from the IOC is displayed.
17. Canada thanked Denmark for raising this, and he was so relieved by this and supported electing new people to the ICSD Board until the next Full Congress.
18. Mr. GRIGORYAN said that he was surprised to see the letter from the IOC, and he said that it should have been distributed to all federation members beforehand.
19. Sweden pointed out that their government has planned to stop funding Swedish Deaf athletes after hearing from the IOC about the ICSD Board members' issues, and he was concerned that other countries might have the same issues, so this must be solved for the sake of the deaf athletes.
20. Mr. REBROV is aware of Sweden's plight with their government and explained that he has communicated with the IOC positively, but the current issues with ICSD Board members must be resolved first.
21. Mr. REBROV explained that he could not distribute the confidential letter from the IOC.
22. Great Britain requested a copy of the letter from the IOC for all present delegates only now.
23. Canada asked if the letter from the IOC mentioned "Confidential"? If so, it would mean the letter cannot be distributed but can be displayed on the screen for all delegates to see instead.
24. Mr. GRIGORYAN has requested a copy of the letter, and he pointed out that it should have been shown yesterday to save the dispute.
25. Canada pointed out that the letter from the IOC has been self-explanatory, and a full election of the ICSD Board members is required.
26. Hungary accepted the letter from the IOC that was very clear, and it would mean 75% vote is needed to add the election on the agenda first. If it passes, we could begin with the Deaflympics while the candidates communicate with their federation members to obtain their letter of support. Then we can start with the election afterward.
27. Jack LAMBERTON supported Hungary's comments.

Passed

Election
1. Election of the Board
  1. Ms. ADAMS said that it was 3 am in Australia, and she would not submit her candidacy since she disagreed with the process.
  2. Mr. LUSIC announced that he has pulled out in bidding to be a member of the Board after eight (8) years. He thanked everyone and is looking forward to joining the others as a delegate.
2. Candidates:
  
  Vote for the ICSD President:
  Gustavo PERAZZOLO (Brazil): Yes = 52, No = 1, Abstention = 1
  
  Vote for the ICSD Vice President of World Sports:
  Yukata OSUGI (Japan): Yes = 32, No = 0, Abstention = 0
  Norbert Hensen (Germany): Yes = 20, No = 0, Abstention = 0
  
  Vote for the ICSD Vice President of Youth Sports: David Lanesman (Israel): Yes = 43, No = 0, Abstention = 4
  
  Vote for the Members-At-Large:
  Yakup KIHTIR (Turkey): Yes = 47, No = 2, Abstention = 0
  Kristian Lantto (Finland): Yes = 49, No = 0, Abstention = 0
  Adam KOSA (Hungary): Yes = 49, No = 0, Abstention = 0
  Alexandra Polivanchuk (Sweden): Yes = 51, No = 0, Abstention = 0
  1. Mr. GRIGORYAN explained that he would submit some of his materials for the investigation committee.
  2. Mr. LAMBERTON thanked everyone and wished Mr. Lanesman well. He reminded Mr. Lanesman that four (4) persons are in the Youth Commission.
3. Vote for the new ICSD Board members with limitation power for up to one (1) year:
  1. Deaflympics
  2. Congress plan
  3. Election plan
  4. Communication with IOC
  5. World Championships
  Vote to approve:
  Yes = 49, No = 0, Abstention = 1
  Result - Passed
Deaflympics
1. Mr. Bogard gave a PowerPoint presentation on the 2021 Summer Deaflympics in Caxias do Sul, showing all sports venues in Caxias do Sul and Farroupilha, including the distance details and photos.
2. Richard Ewald, CEO of the 2021 Deaflympics OC, gave a PowerPoint presentation including the video and photos of Caxias do Sul.
3. Japan gave a PowerPoint presentation on Tokyo's 2025 Summer Deaflympics.
4. Greece explained that they have prepared for the 2025 Deaflympics for two (2) years, but due to Japan having made positive progress, they decided to withdraw their bid and begin campaigning for 2029 instead.
Closed
1. Hungary pointed out that this Extraordinary Congress was complicated and very sensitive and thanked everyone for their effort to save the ICSD.
2. Kasper Bergmann thanked everyone.
3. The United States thanked Robert MATHER.
4. Canada gave a vote of thanks to Kasper Bergmann for his hard work.
5. Regional Confederation presidents thanked everyone and requested any other media that did not belong to the ICSD to be closed and removed.
6. Mr. REBROV thanked his staff for their patience during this difficult Extraordinary Congress and thanked the interpreters who spent many extra hours. He also thanked Kasper Bergmann for being the moderator.
7. Mr. PERAZZOLO thanked those on Zoom and the hotel who have managed to have us during the difficult time with Covid-19. He also thanked those involved in this Extraordinary Congress, including three (3) scrutineers, Swiss volunteers, and a special thanks to Mr. REBROV, who has worked tirelessly and finally to Brazil Deaf Sports Federation for supporting him.

The session closed at 21:00

ICSD