On colors.ba, we are opening a section dedicated to supporters’ rights. Our first topic takes us to Football Supporters Europe (FSE) — an independent, democratic and non-profit association representing the interests of football supporters across the continent.
Who is FSE?
Football Supporters Europe is recognised as a representative body on supporter issues by institutions including UEFA and the Council of Europe.
FSE brings together members from more than 50 UEFA member countries — from individuals and local supporter groups to national organisations and international initiatives. Together they represent millions of supporters across men’s and women’s football, from amateur and professional club football to national-team football.
Their mission
FSE’s goal is to help make football safe, affordable, inclusive and accessible to everyone. Among other things, the organisation advocates for:
- protecting and advancing supporters’ rights;
- fighting violence and discrimination;
- affordable ticket prices;
- safe and well-organised stadiums;
- protecting away supporters;
- greater supporter influence in club and football-institution governance;
- developing the Supporter Liaison Officer — SLO role;
- preserving the identity, traditions and heritage of football clubs.
Why does FSE matter?
Supporters are not merely ticket buyers. They are part of the identity of a club and the community to which it belongs.
FSE argues that supporters have the right to follow their club in a safe and dignified environment, to be protected from discrimination and unjustified restrictions, and to take part in discussions about decisions that directly affect them.
Through FSE, organised supporters can take local issues to the European level and participate in shaping policies, campaigns and priorities in discussions with key football institutions.
Our view
The supporters’ rights movement in Europe is becoming increasingly important. FSE shows how the supporter voice can be organised, connected and represented at the highest level.
With this article, we want to open space for discussion about the position of supporters in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the rest of the Balkans, while following European initiatives that are changing football from the perspective of the people who care about it most.
Supporters must be partners to clubs and institutions, not simply an audience called upon when tickets need to be sold or support is needed.
Source: Football Supporters Europe — “About FSE” and “Background & History”.