Founded in 2020, the ISDF is the recognised international authority for self-defence sport, education, and athlete welfare.
We bring together national federations, instructors, and athletes under a shared framework of technical standards, ethical conduct, and mutual respect.
From grassroots clubs to world championships, our purpose is to protect the integrity of self-defence as both discipline and sport.
Every standard begins with the wellbeing of the athlete and the student.
Transparent rules, impartial judging, and clean sport free from doping.
A discipline of restraint, awareness, and respect for others.
Training and competition accessible to every age and ability.
Preserving the lineage and traditions behind every discipline.
Continuous development of technique, coaching, and athlete pathways.
The ISDF was founded in 2020 to promote and regulate self-defence disciplines internationally — unifying teaching programmes, certification methods, and ethical practices across its member network.
Leads the federation's global strategy, congress, and international development.
Oversees standards, certification, partnerships, and federation operations.
Our team supports national bodies, clubs, instructors, and athletes worldwide.
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