The continued development of athletics around the world depends on how effectively federations function and meet their obligations.
All federations face challenges, and, in some cases, a struggle for survival.
Athletics is in perpetual competition with other sports, as well as with a growing number of leisure options, to attract and retain participants, supporters, public interest and resources. Failure in this competition could mean that athletics is marginalised. In most countries the sport's competitors are getting tougher every day, intensifying the challenge faced by federations. Clearly, hard work, organisation, skills and vision on the part of each federation's leadership are critical to the success of the sport. The primary aim of this manual is to assist IAAF Member Federation leaders by preparing them for their roles and improving the performance of their duties.