January 07th, 2026

​1. Formal International Welcome Statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
European Children & Youth Physical Education Academy (E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy) joins the global family of the World Children & Youth Physical Education Academy (C.Y.P.E. – Academy)
07 January 2026 – Heinola, Finland / Mykolaiv, Ukraine
Today marks a historic milestone in European and global children’s and youth physical education. Following the official founding of E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy, we are proud to welcome this pioneering European association as a cooperating member of C.Y.P.E. – Academy.
E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy is the first European organization fully dedicated to promoting children’s and youth physical education, with an initial focus on Ukraine, particularly the Mykolaiv region, where war and crisis have deeply affected childhood and youth development.
Through this partnership, both academies commit to:

• Supporting the mental, physical, and social well-being of children and youth in crisis areas
• Developing trauma-informed physical education programs
• Promoting international cooperation and exchange among educators, coaches, and policymakers
• Standing courageously and persistently for the rights of children under any circumstances

Together, we reaffirm that even in times of war, children deserve safety, education, and opportunity to thrive.
We warmly welcome E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy to our global family. Together, we continue to make history.
Timo Virtanen
Chairperson
World Children & Youth Physical Education Academy – C.Y.P.E. – Academy

2. Joint Declaration (E.C.Y.P.E. – C.Y.P.E.)Joint Declaration on Children & Youth Physical Education in Europe and Globally
Preamble:
Recognizing that physical education is fundamental to children’s holistic development, especially in war-torn and crisis-affected regions, the World Children & Youth Physical Education Academy (C.Y.P.E. – Academy) and the European Children & Youth Physical Education Academy (E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy) declare their formal partnership to promote health, resilience, and opportunity for children and youth.
Commitments:

1. We commit to supporting children and youth affected by conflict, starting with Ukraine, particularly Mykolaiv, and extending globally.
2. We will develop programs that integrate physical, mental, and social development for children in crisis zones.
3. We will share knowledge, resources, and expertise between Europe and global partners to maximize impact.
4. We pledge to advocate for children’s rights, ensuring every child can access safe, structured, and supportive physical education.
5. We affirm the principles of courage, persistence, and resilience in all our work.

Endorsement:
Through this partnership, we unite our efforts to create a stronger, global network for children’s and youth physical education — a network that never gives up.
Signed:
Timo Virtanen – Chairperson, C.Y.P.E. – Academy
Timo Virtanen – Chairperson, E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy
Date: 07 January 2026

3. Short Manifesto on Physical Education in War Conditions
​Physical Education in War and Crisis: A Manifesto

1. Every child matters. Even in conflict zones, children have the right to movement, play, and education.
2. Physical education is resilience. Exercise and structured activity promote mental strength, social cohesion, and emotional recovery.
3. Trauma-informed programs are essential. We recognize the psychological impact of war and integrate sensitivity, safety, and support into all activities.
4. Courage and persistence guide us. Educators, coaches, and organizations must act boldly to protect and empower children.
5. Partnerships amplify impact. Collaboration between local, national, and international actors ensures resources and knowledge reach those in need.
6. We never give up. No matter the challenges, every child deserves opportunity, growth, and hope.

Signed:
World Children & Youth Physical Education Academy (C.Y.P.E. – Academy)
European Children & Youth Physical Education Academy (E.C.Y.P.E. – Academy)