Saving LivesBuilding
Champions

Our Olympic Bid
Learn About ILS

ILS global reach

130+

Member
Federations

30M+

Members
Globally

100M+

Volunteer
Hours/Year

A Sport That
Saves Lives

ILS is an International Federation Officially Recognised by the International Olympic Committee

Partner & Affiliated Organisations

Our Dual Mission

Saving Lives and Building Champions

Saving
Lives

Every day, we work toward a world free from drowning by advancing global water safety, strengthening lifesaving capability, and supporting communities most at risk. Guided by humanitarian values and evidence-based practice, we lead and collaborate worldwide to prevent tragedy before it happens.

Drowning Prevention

Building
Champions

We develop athletes who possess courage, skill, and a commitment to protecting others. Through lifesaving sport, we nurture excellence, resilience, and teamwork - shaping competitors who inspire their communities and elevate the lifesaving movement worldwide.

Lifesaving Sport

Brisbane 2032 Olympic Bid

Why Lifesaving Belongs in the Olympic Games

Lifesaving is the only sport where the skills needed to win gold can also save lives. It’s a sport with purpose, powered by humanitarian impact and athletes who serve their communities every day.

Our Olympic Journey

Major Events

ILS major events

Lifesaving World Championships 2026

Held every two years, The Lifesaving World Championships is the ultimate showcase of speed, skill, and courage – where elite lifesavers from around the globe compete in events inspired by real-world rescue scenarios. It’s not just a sporting spectacle; it’s a celebration of athleticism with purpose.

ILS together with Lifesaving South Africa is delighted to welcome the world to Port Elizabeth in Nelson Mandela Bay for the Lifesaving World Championships 2026 from 25 November – 13 December.

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World Conference on Drowning Prevention

The World Conference on Drowning Prevention brings together global leaders, researchers, innovators, and frontline responders to tackle one of the world’s most overlooked public-health challenges. It’s a forum where evidence meets action – sharing breakthroughs, shaping policy, and driving life-saving strategies that protect communities everywhere.

Explore WCDP

Latest News

Latest ILS news

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Our Community at Work

ILS community stories

Get Involved

Ready to turn your passion for water safety into real-world impact?

Explore our Member Federation page to find your local affiliated organisation and become part of a global network dedicated to saving lives. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, compete, train, or support your community, your journey starts with the organisation closest to you.

Member Directory