The European Draughts Confederation (EDC) is the governing body for the sport of draughts in Europe. Established on August 13, 1998, in Tallinn, Estonia, the EDC was created to promote, develop, and regulate the game across European nations, uniting various national draughts federations under one organization.
Foundation in Tallinn, Estonia (1998)
The EDC was founded during a meeting of European draughts federations in Tallinn. This establishment marked a significant step toward structured collaboration in organizing competitions, standardizing rules, and promoting draughts throughout Europe. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, became the symbolic birthplace of the EDC, reflecting the city’s rich history in mind sports.
Headquarters in Szczecin, Poland (1998–2007)
From 1998 to 2007, the headquarters of the EDC were located in Szczecin, Poland, primarily because the first EDC President, Jacek Pawlicki, resided there. Under his leadership, the EDC expanded its activities and influence. Szczecin served as the administrative hub for coordinating European championships and fostering cooperation among member federations.
Return to Tallinn, Estonia (2007–2019)
In 2009, the EDC headquarters returned to Tallinn, Estonia, and were established at the Paul Keres Chess House located at Vene Street 29. The headquarters were officially opened with a ceremonial event on April 23, 2009, attended by notable figures such as Estonian Minister of Culture Laine Jänes and Mayor of Tallinn Edgar Savisaar.
The Paul Keres Chess House, named after the esteemed Estonian chess grandmaster Paul Keres, is a building with historical significance dating back to the 14th century. The relocation to Tallinn symbolized a return to the EDC’s roots and reinforced Estonia’s commitment to promoting intellectual sports.
Leadership of Janek Mäggi (2007–2019)
Janek Mäggi served as the President of the EDC from 2007 to 2017. Under his leadership, the EDC saw significant growth in its activities and increased participation across Europe. Janek focused on modernizing the organization, enhancing the visibility of draughts, and fostering international cooperation. His tenure contributed to the professionalization of the sport and the expansion of its reach among younger generations.
Relocation to Rome, Italy (Since 2019)
In 2019, the EDC headquarters were moved to Rome, Italy, as formalized in the updated EDC Statute:
“The European Draughts Confederation has its seat in Rome, Italy. The area of the activities conducted by the EDC is Europe. The Association is subject to the laws of the European Economic Community and to the national laws of Italy.”
The move to Rome reflects the EDC’s ongoing mission to foster the sport across different regions in Europe and to operate within a central and historically significant European city.
Current Leadership: President Carlo Andrea Bordini
Since 2017, Carlo A. Bordin has been serving as the President of the European Draughts Confederation. Under his leadership, the EDC continues to promote draughts throughout Europe, emphasizing youth development, inclusivity, and the integration of modern technologies into the sport. Carlo A. Bordini has focused on strengthening relationships with national federations, enhancing the quality of European championships, and expanding the EDC’s presence in international mind sports communities. His efforts aim to ensure that draughts remains a dynamic and accessible sport for all ages.
Activities and Structure
The EDC continues to organize European Draughts Championships and works closely with the World Draughts Federation (FMJD) to promote the sport globally. The organization is governed by its General Assembly, Executive Board, and various committees that oversee different aspects of its operations, such as tournaments, youth development, and referee training.
The EDC’s membership comprises national draughts federations from numerous European countries, including both Ordinary Members with full voting rights and Associate Members. The organization remains committed to promoting draughts as a sport, fostering friendly relations among players, and upholding principles of non-discrimination and fair play.
Since its foundation in 1998, the European Draughts Confederation has played a pivotal role in uniting national draughts federations, organizing major competitions, and promoting the game across Europe. The organization’s history reflects its adaptability and dedication to the sport, with headquarters moving from Tallinn to Szczecin, back to Tallinn, and then to Rome, symbolizing its pan-European identity.
Through the efforts of its leaders and member federations, including the current President Carlo A. Bordini, the EDC continues to contribute significantly to the development and popularity of draughts. It remains committed to its mission of promoting the sport, encouraging youth participation, and fostering international cooperation, ensuring that draughts maintains a prominent place in Europe’s rich tapestry of mind sports.
