One of the objectives of the Grand National Debate was to bring out themes that were present but remained in a closed environment, to bring them to the table, and to give ideas some air, and, why not, some proposals for solutions.
Here is a form of participation in public life that is more tangible than the weekly demonstrations of the yellow vests!!!
The only debate organized at the national level, which focused on sports themes, took place in Nice, with the presence of the Minister of Sports, Roxana Maracineanu, and the President of the CNOSF, Denis Masseglia.
It was a happy initiative by CDOS 06, led by President Philippe Manassero and his team. To use a sports analogy, the trial was successful, or the goal was scored.
With the lights out, an initial assessment is necessary to retain some key ideas from what was said and what will remain in the minds of the participants.
1 CDOS 06 organized the only national debate on the sports theme. How did the idea come about? Are you satisfied with the response from the sports community and the relevance of the topics discussed and the quality of the interventions?
Philippe Manassero: It seemed important to me that sports should not be sidelined in this Grand Debate. Even before the CNOSF invited the CDOS and CROS of France to take initiatives, I had discussed with our elected officials and took the initiative to organize a thematic evening on Democracy, Citizenship, and Sport. I am truly delighted and even surprised by the significant presence of leaders from departmental sports committees, regional leagues, clubs, popular education associations, political neighborhoods in the city, political leaders in charge of sports, and business leaders, not to mention many athletes, students, and particularly those from Amos Business School in Nice. 300 people at the National Sports Museum: a real success that positively impressed the Minister of Sports and the President of the CNOSF. During the debate, I found there was a high quality of questioning from participants who had prepared their files very well.
2 What are the most interesting feedbacks that could be brought to the attention of authorities, and what proposals could be applied practically?
Philippe Manassero: The approach to volunteering was frequently brought up with a request for special support. The intersection between sports and business, between sports and health, was at the heart of the debate. The recognition of non-Olympic federations in terms of statutes expressed a desire for equality. There was a call for more attentive listening to local and departmental associative structures concerning the decision-making power, which often comes from Paris or the regions.
3 Several interventions mentioned the societal role of sports. Concretely, in which direction and by what means should we act for this infusion of sports values into culture and social life?
Philippe Manassero: Sports should be given the same means that culture has in France. More financial resources, more possibilities for tax deductions through foundations. Just as an example, FDJ helps the heritage foundation managed by Stéphane Bern for the protection and renovation of French heritage. Why not also set up a scratch-off game, a lotto, to collect funds for building or renovating sports facilities? Obtain aid through employment with supporting contracts to retain our youth in these jobs. These are a few avenues, for example.
