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FIDE Fair Play Seminar in Stavanger, Norway

Join the FIDE Fair Play Seminar in Stavanger, Norway

When: June 1–4, 2025
Where: Stavanger, Norway
Language: English
Organizers: FIDE Fair Play Commission & Norway Chess Federation


In chess, integrity is as vital as intellect. While brilliant moves and deep strategies may win games, it is fair play that protects the very soul of the sport. This June, during one of the most prestigious chess tournaments in the world — Norway Chess — the FIDE Fair Play Commission invites players, arbiters, organizers, and chess lovers from around the globe to the FIDE Fair Play Seminar in Stavanger, Norway.

This is not just an average chess seminar — it is where psychology meets statistics, law meets technology, and human intuition meets cutting-edge analysis. Whether you’re running tournaments, enforcing rules, or just passionate about clean, ethical chess, this seminar offers a unique chance to understand the many layers of fair play and how to uphold it in the modern game.


🔍 Why Fair Play Matters More Than Ever

As chess becomes faster, more accessible, and more connected than ever before, the threat of unfair practices — from subtle psychological manipulation to tech-assisted cheating — is growing. Fair play is no longer just a noble ideal; it is a skillset.

By learning how to detect anomalies, read body language, manage crowds, and apply data-driven insights, today’s specialists and organizers become the guardians of the game’s integrity. This seminar is your chance to step into that role — or refine it — with guidance from top experts in the field.


🧠 What You’ll Learn

The seminar covers a rich syllabus designed to equip you with both theoretical knowledge and practical tools:

  • The Legal Side of Fair Play: Understand FIDE’s regulatory framework, from tournament protocols to the latest fair play regulations.
  • Recognizing Red Flags: Learn how to detect suspicious behavior, spot inconsistencies, and respond effectively — whether it is a statistical anomaly or strange psychological patterns.
  • The Power of Numbers: Delve into Prof. Regan’s statistical methods for evaluating fair play, used in top-level events worldwide.
  • Technology in Action: Explore the technical devices and tools that help us monitor games discreetly and efficiently.
  • Psychology & Observation: Hone your ability to observe players’ body language, identify unusual behavior, and interpret subtle cues that might indicate deeper issues.

You will also explore real-world scenarios — how to prepare for an event, manage the tournament environment, and work with officials, spectators, and players to promote transparency and trust.


🏅 What You will Walk Away With

Beyond invaluable insights, all participants who successfully complete the seminar and pass the final exam will receive a Fair Play Expert (FPE) seminar norm — a formal credential that counts toward the FPE title.

This seminar is not just about learning; it is about joining a global movement of professionals committed to keeping the game fair, exciting, and respected.


📋 Key Info at a Glance

  • Dates: June 1–4, 2025
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM daily
  • Location: Stavanger, Norway (during Norway Chess)
  • Fees: 200 EUR (seminar) + 50 EUR (exam)
  • Language: English
  • Registration opens: March 30, 2025
  • Deadline: June 1, 2025
  • Email to register: fairplay@fide.com
  • Seats are limited — first come, first served!

Accommodation is not included and can be arranged independently to suit your preferences and budget. The federation has negotiated a discount at Clarion Hotel Energy Stavanger, contact nsf@sjakk.no or use the form here: https://www.sjakk.no/aktuelt/fair.


👥 Meet Your Lecturers

  • Andy Howie – Chair of the Fair Play Commission, FIDE Fair Play Officer (FPO)
  • Bojana Bejatovic – Senior Lecturer, FIDE Fair Play Officer (FPO)

With years of combined experience in top-level fair play enforcement, these officials will guide participants through both the theory and practice of modern fair play monitoring.


✨ Join the Movement

This seminar is for anyone who believes that chess should be not just a battle of minds, but a celebration of honor, respect, and trust. Whether you are a seasoned arbiter or an enthusiastic player curious about the “other side” of the board, this is your opportunity to explore what fair play really means — and why it is essential to the future of the game.

Let us build a stronger, cleaner, and more honorable chess world — together.
Reserve your spot now by emailing fairplay@fide.com or using the form here: https://www.sjakk.no/aktuelt/fair.