FIFPRO Asia/Oceania has launched a new strategic framework for the division: Power to the Players, a comprehensive vision for the transformation of the football industry in the region.

The framework aims to channel the unprecedented interest in the sport in Asia/Oceania, as demonstrated by the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, by positioning players at the heart of the sport.  

Launched at the division’s bi-annual congress in Auckland, the framework sets forward a path to build on the outstanding efforts of generations of players and member unions by elevating the players’ voice to achieve positive impact.

PFA Co-Chief Executives, Beau Busch and Kathryn Gill, are both board members on the FIFPRO Asia/Oceania and were in attendance in Auckland-Tāmaki Makaurau to help launch the strategic framework.

PFA Co-Chief Executives, Kathryn Gill (L) and Beau Busch (C) alongside FIFPRO General Secretary, Jonas Baer-Hoffman in Auckland.

Designed to play a leading role in supporting FIFPRO’s global reform agenda, the framework has five key objectives:

  • Player Organising and Mobilising: building and embedding a strong culture of organising across the region;
  • Member Unions: enhancing all member unions throughout the region;
  • Bargaining and Leverage: Building effective relationships with strategic partners such as the Asian Football Confederation (AFC);
  • Diversity: Promoting the diversity of FIFPRO Asia/Oceania’s members while pursuing a workplace for players that is free from all forms of discrimination and risks to players’ human rights;
  • Innovation, Data and Alliances: Commitment to proactively shaping the future of Asian and Oceanian football through evidence-based research, analysis and partnerships.

FIFPRO Asia/Oceania Chairman Takuya Yamazaki said: “The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup has shone a spotlight on the immense talent and potential within Asia and Oceania, whilst also exposing the enormous challenges faced by players. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we ensure our players are given the support and representation they deserve.

“A legacy of this transformational Women’s World Cup will be stronger representation for all footballers. We plan over the next three years to build stronger unions, enhance player organising and effective relationships to deliver better outcomes for players and the game.”

Anna Green, NZPFA’s representative on FIFPRO’s Asia/Oceania Division board, an-82 time New Zealand international and Sydney FC defender, said: “The interests of the players and the game are inherently linked. Our mission is to enhance all of our unions across Oceania and Asia and ensure that the players’ rights are protected and respected.

Anna Green presenting at the FIFPRO Asia/Oceania General Assembly.

“This is the starting point for the players having greater impact and transforming football across the region into a workplace that deeply respects and protects the rights of players.”

Download the framework HERE.