IKF Constitution

Article 1 - Definition

1.1 The International Kempo Federation, hereinafter referred to as the "IKF", is a non-profit organization composed of National Kempo Federations acting as members, officially affiliated through one of the five Continental Departaments of Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and Pan America.
1.2 The IKF is a non-political and a non-profit organization. It shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, religion, gender or politics. In the IKF Constitution , Bye-Laws, Rules and Regulations, the masculine gender used in relation to any physical person shall, unless there is a specific provision to the contrary, be understood as including the feminine gender.
1.3 The IKF promotes Kempo/Kenpo mainly as a modern combat sport, preserving also the martial arts aspects of self-defence togheter with the physical and mental education aspects. Because of this, IKF will develop his activity in both directions of Kempo/Kenpo practicing : Modern Combat Sport and Traditional Self-Defence .
1.4 All provisions of the IKF Statutes, Bye-Laws, Rules and other Regulations must be in conformity with the Olympic Charter.

Article 2 - Structure

2.1 The IKF is composed by National Federations officially represented by the five departaments within their respective zones of activities.
2.2 All affiliated National Federations are required to have their statutes and regulations in agreement with those of the IKF.
2.3 The five continental departaments collaborate closely amongst themselves and with the IKF.
They shall communicate:
-the agenda, the minutes and the decisions of their Ordinary and Extraordinary sessions of Congresses
-the program and results of their major IKF events
-information on the general progress and the situation of Kempo/Kenpo in the Federations composing IKF
-in general, all useful information.
Copies of all such communications shall be sent to the Secretary General of the IKF . The Executive Committee, hereinafter referred to as the "EC", of the IKF shall publish periodical reports providing current information on the activities of the IKF and shall distribute these reports to all IKF Members by all appropriate means available to it.
Bye- laws to Article 2.2
Not with standing the above, each Continental Departament will have Director who is a member in the EC . That director who will represent a continental department will be elected by the national federations who are members of that department .
Bye- laws to Article 2.3
Copies of all such communications shall also be sent to the President and Executive-President of the IKF.

Article 3 – IKF MEMBERS

3.1 FULL-MEMBERS

3.1(1) IKF recognizes only one Full-Member/Country (If there is already a recognized IKF Full-Member from a country no other local or national Kempo/Kenpo organization can claim the representation).
3.1(2) IKF can approve the Full-Member recognition immediately, just in the case the National Kempo/Kenpo Federation is already recognized by their National Olympic Committee or National Sport Authority of its country.
3.1(3) IKF can approve the Full-Member recognition, even if the National Kempo/Kenpo Federation is not recognized yet by NOC or/and NSA, but just after attending the IKF World Championships for 5 years consecutive.
3.1(4) Full-Members have the right to observe, to speak, to propose, to vote, to be elected in IKF  Executive Committee.                                                                                                                               

3.2 AFFILIATED MEMBERS

3.2(1) IKF recognizes only one Affiliated Member/Country (If there is already a recognized IKF Affiliated Member from a country no other local or national Kempo/Kenpo organization can claim the IKF representation).
3.2(2) IKF can approve the Affiliated Member recognition, even if their National Kempo/Kenpo Federation is not recognized by their National Olympic Committee or National Sport Authority, just by the following criterias cumulative:

- the national kempo/kenpo federation is founded legally in front of their country’s laws.

- their national teams attended the IKF World Championships for at least 3 years consecutive from the position of Associated Member.

3.2(3) IKF affiliated Members have the right to observe, to speak, to propose and to vote.

3.3 ASSOCIATED MEMBERS

3.3(1) IKF can recognize 2 or more Associated Members from a country, but they will compete in the IKF events under only one flag representing their nation.                                                     
3.3(2) IKF can approve the Associated Member recognition, by the following criterias:

- there is no other IKF Full-Member or IKF Affiliated Member in their country.

- they are organized as a Kempo/Kenpo or sport combat or as a martial arts “club”, “association”, “organization”, “federation”,  founded legally  in front of their country laws who have good intentions to promote and develop Kempo/Kenpo in their territory.

Bye Laws:
3.4 If two or more national kempo/kenpo federations from the same country claim for the representation as IKF Full-Members or IKF Affiliated Members, this it will be given as follows in this order :

-      to the national kempo/kenpo federation which is recognized by its National Olympic Committee.

-      to the national kempo/kenpo federation which is recognized by the highest National Sport Authority.

-      Failing these preference, if there is no national kempo/kenpo federation recognized by NOC or NSA, no IKF Full-Member or IKF Affiliated Member, the organization claiming for IKF membership will receive only the status of IKF Associated Member as a first step, for a better understanding and for a better knowledge of the local situation.

Article 4 - Aims

Among others, the IKF has the following aims:

a) To promote cordial and friendly relations between its members and to supervise Kempo/Kenpo activity throughout the world.
b) To protect the interest of Kempo/Kenpo throughout the world.
c) To organize, in collaboration with the five Continental Departaments, the IKF Events (at regular intervals) as well as the Kempo/Kenpo competitions for the World Championships . The right to organize the World Championships and international events will only be given to countries who are able to guarantee entry into their territory of all participants of Members Federations wishing to participate.
d) To organize Kempo/Kenpo throughout the world and to develop and spread the practice of kthis modern combat sport particularly amongst the kids and youth.
e) To establish the international regulations of kempo .
f) To support and maintain the ideals and objectives of the Olympic Movement.
g) To receive recognition from IOC’s main partners as WADA, TAFFISA, FISU,CISM, SPORTACCORD and many others.
h) To receive IOC’s recognition as international sport.

Article 5 - Eligibility and Medical Codes

5.1 To be eligible for participation in the World Championships, Continental Championships, International Kempo Competitions and Kempo/Kenpo competitions held under the control or recognition of the IKF, a competitor must conform to the criteria set out in the rules concerning Eligibility Code, Nationality of Competitors, and Propaganda and Advertising of the Olympic Charter, to the rules setted up by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) and to the Rules of the IKF (Statutes, Sports and Organization Rules, Refereeing Rules).

5.2 The International Kempo Federation recognizes and shall comply with the Medical Code of the International Olympic Committee.
Bye-Laws to Article 5
All competitors in the World Championships, Continental Championships, International Kempo Competitions and Kempo/Kenpo competitions held under the control or recognition of the IKF shall:
-respect the spirit of fair-play and non-violence, and behave accordingly on and off the competition venue;
-refrain from using substances and procedures prohibited by the Rules of the IOC and of the IKF;
-respect and comply with all aspects of the IOC and IKF Medical Code.

Article 6 - Headquarters and Official Languages

6.1 The Headquarters of the IKF shall be situated in the town or place wherein the Secretary General resides. The IKF shall be incorporated in the city decided by the EC and approved by the General Assembly.
6.2 The official languages of the IKF is English . All official documents of the IKF must be published in the English language . General Assemblies, meetings and sessions must be held in this language . All official correspondence must be written in the official language .
Bye-Law to Article 6: IKF Archive
1. Permanent Files - Minutes of EC Meeting, Congress and Commission Meetings, Congress Reports, IKF Dan Certificates, Winner Lists of Kempo/Kenpo Events, Fighting Sheets, Referee Exam Results, etc. Each EC Member shall send their documents to the Secretary General and to Executive-President' office.
2. Files Kept For 10 Years - All legal documents and contracts between the IKF and the third party. Each IKF EC member shall keep their own documents for the required ten years. Afterwards, the files can be disposed of permanently.
3. Files Kept For 3 Years - common correspondence documents Each IKF EC member shall keep their own documents and his predecessor for the required three years. Afterwards, the files can be disposed of permanently.
Each EC Member shall decide which documents to safe-guard and for what duration. After this has been completed, each EC Members shall make a list of these files in the form of a proposal at an EC Meeting. The EC Members shall be responsible for holding these documents during the required time period.

Article 7 - Governing Bodies

The Governing bodies of the IKF are:
(a ) the General Assembly (GA)
(c ) the Executive Committee (EC)

Article 8 - The General Assembly

8.1 The General Assembly is composed by the official mebers of the IKF
8.2 The General Assembly shall be held every two years in the place designated by the preceding General Assembly and shall be convened at the same time and in the same city as the World Championships. It shall always be taken into account that, whenever possible there shall be an equitable rotation amongst the different member continental departaments .
8.3 The General Assembly may consider only those items which are included in the Agenda announced 90 days before the meeting .
8.4 The General Assembly shall be held every 5 years , shall elect the EC (except for the IKF’s Continental Departaments Directors and the original foundation members positions) and shall approve or disapprove its actions since the preceding Congress; propose the Statutes, the Regulations, the Competition Rules and make such modifications as necessary; decide on all questions relative to the aims of the IKF; approve or reject the reports of the members of the EC; make all decisions on proposals submitted by member Federations or Continental Depataments ; and deliberate on all other relevant questions.
8.5 If the World Championships cannot be held one year, the General Assembly shall nevertheless take place, and if no country is able to undertake the responsibility of its organization, it shall be held in the city of the Headquarters of the IKF.
8.6 At least six months before the General Assembly , the General Secretary shall invite the Continental Departaments and the IKF Member Federations to submit to him items, which they wish to have included in the Agenda. Submissions must be received at least five months before the date fixed for the General Assembly. At least three months before the date fixed for the General Assembly, the Secretary General will send to all IKF Members, Continental Departaments and the EC Members, an invitation to attend the General Assembly, which is to be signed by the President, Executive-President or by the Secretary General, together with an Agenda formulated by the EC. The Agenda shall include the reports of the President,Executive-President, the Continental Directors , the Secretary General, the General Treasurer and the Technical Directors (Vicepresidents).
Bye-Law to Article 8.6
Whenever possible, an EC meeting shall be held between three to five months before the General Assembly for the purposes of reviewing the agendas and formulating an opinion to be presented at General Assembly.

8.7 The Agenda of the General Assembly shall include the following items:

TECHNICAL MATTERS
-election of stewards and scrutineers;
-proposals for and review of the sports regulations;
-proposals for and review of refereeing rules;
-proposals for the education and traditional aspect of Kempo ;
-proposals for the technical and sports rules;
-a review of the IKF calendar;

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
-approval of the Minutes of the preceding General Assembly ;
-reports of the President, Executive-President, the Vice-Presidents and the Continental Directors;
-reports of the Secretary General;
-reports of the General Treasurer;
-reports of the Refereeing Chairmen ( Fighting and Traditional);
-reports of the International Accounting firm (Auditing of the IKF);
-approval of the EC' Activities since the last Congress ;
-election of new members to vacant positions on the EC;
-a decision on the allocation of IKF Championships.
-proposals for amendments to the IKF Statutes, Bye-Laws and Rules;
-proposals from the EC, Continental Departaments and National Federation Members
Bye-Laws to Article 8. 7
The order of the discussion among the items listed above will be in the same order listed in Article 8, paragraph 7. No business shall be transacted nor resolutions accepted for discussion at General Assembly other than as specified on the agenda relating there to except as provided in Article 8 of the Statutes. Matters which the EC consider urgent and which have arisen too late for inclusion on the agenda may be brought before a General Assembly.
8.8 Each IKF Member may be represented at the General Assembly by two delegates.
Only IKF Full-Members having the right to vote, will be allowed to vote (one vote/country).
Bye-Laws to Article 8. 8
In the event of dispute in regard to the eligibility of a National Federation President, delegate to the General Assembly or proxy, the Continental Departament shall make the final decision.
8.9 Any member National Federation whose language is not one of the official languages being used may also have their own interpreter in attendance.
8.10 Each delegate must be in possession of credentials signed by the President of his National Federation unless the delegate is himself the President.
8.11 Observers may be invited to the General Assembly on the recommendations of the Continental Departaments or EC. Observers shall have the right to speak at General Assembly upon being formally invited and with the authorization of the Chairperson of the General Assembly.
8.12 The verification of credentials and proxies will be carried out by a Committee composed of the Vice-Presidents , Continental Directors , the Secretary General and the General Treasurer prior to the commencement of the Congress. In the case of any dispute, the Secretary General shall submit the matter to the Congress.
8.13 The General Assembly or the Executive Committee meetings shall be presided by the Executive-President of the IKF or in his absence by a Vice-President to be nominated by the EC.
Bye-Laws to Article 8. 13
During the election of the President or a non-confidence vote against the President, the President will surrender the chair to a "Chairperson Pro-Tem", who having been duly elected, will then conduct the said election or non confidence vote. Irrespective of the election result, the former President will resume the chair after the election and will preside over the General Assembly until its closure. In the case where a non-confidence vote against the President has been ratified, the `Chairperson Pro-Tem` will preside over the General Assembly until its closure. However, if the non-confidence vote is defeated the President will resume the chair and will preside over the General Assembly until its closure.
During the deliberation of the approval of the EC' Activities since the last General Assembly, the chairperson will surrender the chair to a "Chairperson Pro-Tem", who is to be selected from the members of the EC of the hosting countries, and who will then continue with the agenda
8.14 The Chairperson of the General Assembly shall declare the official opening of the General Assembly when at least half of the Member Federations are present or represented, and when at least three different Continental Unions' representatives are present.
8.15 A National Federation may be represented by another National Federation from the same Departament present at the General Assembly through a duly authorized proxy, but no National Federation shall have more than three votes including that of the country which it represents.
Bye-Laws to Article 8. 15
A duly authorized proxy shall be executed on a format prepared by the IKF General Secretary and approved by the EC. It shall require the signature of the Federation President signing the proxy and the seal of the said Federation. A proxy by facsimile will be accepted. A proxy not meeting the above said requirements will not be accepted. Nevertheless, a proxy not on the IKF proxy form which satisfies the remaining requirements, may be accepted by the Credential Committee under Article 8.13
8.16 Any person who is elected or appointed as a Member of the EC automatically surrenders their right to vote at General Assembly forthwith.
8.17 The General Assembly shall decide by a 2/3 majority of the votes cast unless otherwise defined in the Statutes. For questions of particular importance or delicate matters or whenever one third of the Member National Federations entitled to vote so demand, voting shall be conducted by secret ballot.
8.18 Voting for elections must be conducted by secret ballot unless there is only one candidate. If there is only one candidate nominated for a position, he shall be acclaimed, unless one third of the member National Federations having voting rights request that a secret vote take place. Voting for elections shall be by successive elimination of candidates polling the least number of votes until only one candidate remains or until one candidate shall obtain more than 50% of the votes cast.
Bye-Laws to Article 8.18
1) The General Assembly shall elect stewards and scrutineers, chosen from amongst those delegates who are not nominated for office and whose national federations did not present any candidate for one of the offices. The stewards and scrutineers will be in charge of all operations in connection with any voting matter, but not limited to, elections and motions, regardless of whether the voting procedure is conducted by secret ballot or not. The EC shall propose the number of stewards and scrutineers to be elected.
2) In the event of an election or vote, the Chairperson shall inform the General Assembly of the pending election, vote and the voting procedure.
3) In the event of an election, all issues in relation to the candidates will be consistent with the Statutes.
4) Should voting be required for more than one post at the Congress following the year of the World Championships, the following election order shall apply:
President
Executive-President
Vicepresidents ( Fighting Kempo and Traditional Kempo departaments)
Refereeing Chairmen (Fighting Kempo and Traditional Kempo commissions)
Secretary General
General Treasurer .
5) In the event of an election, each candidate will be allowed five (5) minutes in which to give a presentation. The candidate may give his presentation verbally and/or through the use of video, slides or other communicative form. Should there be more than one candidate for a post, the speaking order shall be determined by alphabetical order based on the candidates'surnames, with the exception of the current office holder who shall to speak last if he should decide to run for re-election.
6) During an election, a minimum of two election booths and a maximum of three election booths shall be constructed for the purposes of voting. The voting booth shall be covered on all four sides by a curtain so that the voter is provided with absolute privacy. No advertising or other similar posting shall be allowed to be posted inside or in the proximate vicinity of the voting booth. During an election, the steward shall post a list, which contains the surnames of each of the candidates of the relevant post, in the voting booth.
7) Voting Procedure
a) During an election or vote, the Secretary General shall prepare a list of countries which contains the names of the designated delegates who shall vote for the respective National Federation and shall distribute one copy of this list to each Steward and Scrutineer. Each Steward and Scrutineer shall use this official list for the purposes of validating the designated delegates during an election or vote.
b) During an election or vote, the Secretary General shall call the respective National Federations in alphabetical order according to their respective Continental Union. The designated delegate of the National Federation or the designated official in possession of a verified proxy shall indicate his presence to cast a vote.
c) An abstention shall be recorded on behalf of a National Federation when its delegate has been duly called to vote on three separate occasions at one minute intervals and did not respond.
d) With the assistance of the Secretary General of the concerned Continental Union, the Steward shall verify that the individual, who has approached the voting booth, is in fact the designated delegate possessing the authority to cast a vote.
e) The Scrutineers shall secure the voting booths to ensure the integrity of the voting process.
f) The IKF shall provide different colored ballot forms, which corresponds to the number of elections required, to the designated delegate of each National Federation.
g) During an election, the designated delegate shall receive a colored ballot form on which to record his vote. Once the designated delegate has written the surname of the individual that he has decided to select, he shall cast the ballot into the appropriate ballot box while in the presence of a scrutineer
h) In the event of a vote, the designated delegate shall write either "yes" on the ballot form, which represents his approval of the issue being voted upon, or "no" on the ballot form, which represents his disapproval of the issue being voted upon.
8) Official Counting of Votes Procedure
a) Upon completion of the voting process, the Chairperson shall officially announce that the polls have been closed and ask the Steward to begin the official counting of the votes.
b) The Steward(s), with the assistance of the Scrutineeers, shall take the ballot boxes, and count the votes in camera.
c) In the event of an election, the ballots shall be separated by each candidate's surname. In the event of a vote, the "yes" or "no" ballots shall be divided accordingly. Blank ballots or abstentions shall also be divided separately.
d) If a ballot is deemed to be illegible or spoiled by a majority vote of the Stewards and Scrutineers, it shall be deemed blank.
e) Upon completion of the ballot counting process, the each Steward and scrutineer shall officially record the counting of the ballots with verification by their respective signatures. Once this procedure has been officially completed, the Steward(s) shall report the results to the Chairman, who will in turn announce the results to the Congress. Should there be no objections from the General Assembly immediately following the announcement of the results, the Steward(s) shall immediately destroy the used and unused election ballots.
f) In the event of an objection to the validity of an election, the objection shall be filed through the EC and reported forthwith. Should the objection warrant merit beyond a reasonable doubt based upon the EC' investigation of the objection, the objection shall be reported to the General Assembly where a re-election, re-examination, re-vote, or any other action as deemed necessary by the EC shall occur.
8.19 In the event of an equal vote during an election, a second and final vote shall be conducted. In the event that the second and final vote also produces an equal vote, the election result shall be determined by a draw conducted by the Chairperson. In all other matters, an equal number of votes be cast, will result in maintaining the status quo.
8.20 The Secretary General shall provide the key points of the General Assembly Minutes immediately upon the completion of General Assembly.
Bye-Laws to Article 8.20
1) Key Point Information
Key point information relating to the General Assembly will be compiled by the General Secretary and approved by the EC before the end of the World Championships. The key point information shall be distributed by the Presidents of the Continental Departaments to their affiliated National Federations upon its approval by the EC.
2) Draft Minutes
Each EC member shall receive a draft copy of the Congress Draft Minutes within 6 months after the General Assembly. The EC will review the Draft Minutes at the first EC Meeting held after the said 6 months and approve them. The revised Minutes shall be sent to each Continental Union President for distribution.
8.21 The Chairperson of the General Assembly shall have the right to cease any disruptive conduct that obstructs the efficient administration . The method of discussion at the General Assembly is defined in the Bye-Laws.

Article 9 - Extraordinary General Assembly

9.1 If at least one third of the member National Federations, this one third being comprised of Federations from at least three different Continental Departaments , so requests, or if the EC considers it necessary, an Extraordinary General Assembly may be convened by the President and the General Secretary in a town or place chosen by the EC.
9.2 In such a case, the Extraordinary General Assembly must be held in the three months following the date on which the request sent by registered mail and containing the reasons for the meeting is received by the General Secretariat of the IKF.
9.3 The Agenda for the meeting must indicate the reasons for the General Assembly and only those items on the agenda shall be discussed.
9.4 The discussions and decisions made at an Extraordinary General Assembly shall have equal validity as those made at an Ordinary General Assembly. In addition, the discussions and decisions made at an Extraordinary General Assembly must comply with the same conditions as those required for an Ordinary General Assembly .

Article 10 - Executive Committee

10. 1 The Exectutive - Committee is composed by:
- the President;
- Executive-President
- 2 Vice-President
- the General Secretary;
- 5 Directors , one for each Continental Departament ( Europe , Asia , Africa PanAmerica , and Oceania
- the Refereeing Chairmen;

The Extended Executive Committee is composed by:
- the President;
- the Executive-President
- 2 Vice-President
- the General Secretary;
- 5 Directors , one for each Continental Departament ( Europe , Asia , Africa PanAmerica , and Oceania
- the Refereeing Chairmen;
- the General Treasurer (advisory position);
- Fighting KempoTechnical Director (advisory position);
- Kempo Kata Technical Director (advisory position);
- Self Defense Kempo Technical Director (advisory position);
- Kempo Kobudo Technical Director (advisory position);
- Medical Chairmen (advisory position);

10.1.1 The EC shall be chaired by the Executive-President. In the case of his absence, the EC shall elect a chairperson pro-tem from the Secretary General or from the Vice-Presidents.
Bye-Laws to Article 10.1.1
The EC meetings are presided over by the Executive-President or by an EC member according to the Statutes. (Article 10.11)
The EC members assist the Executive-President in this activity and are responsible for the accomplishment of their special field of activities and for those tasks arising from the decisions made by the EC.
10.2 Nominations for any of the elected posts on the EC must be sent to the General Secretary duly signed by the Executive-President of the Member National Federation from which the nominee is from, at least three months prior to the date fixed for the General Assembly , in order to allow all Members Federations to inform their General Assembly delegates of their positions. Nominations will not be accepted from the floor of the General Assembly.
Bye-laws to Article 10.2
The General Secretary will ask for the personal resume of the nominee and his program for the elected post. This information will be distributed, together with the General Assembly Agenda, to all the IKF Members.
10.3 The members of the EC , shall hold office for at least four years in the position to which they were elected by the General Assembly. At the expiration of their term, Committee members may offer themselves for re-election. The original foundation members can be voted just by the original foundation members.
10.4 The elections for the Executive Comitee members for a 4-8 years term of office shall be conducted at the General Assembly following the year of the last World Championship .
10.5 The term of members of the EC of the IKF shall automatically extend up to the time of the next General Assembly if the term expires before the meeting of such General Assembly. If because of a resignation or for any other reason a post other than that of a Continental Director or original foundation members positions, becomes vacant on the EC, the EC shall appoint an interim EC Member who shall serve until the next General Assembly, where the General Assembly will elect a candidate to fill the vacant position. The elected candidate's term in office will be in accordance with Article 10.5.
10.6 As a general rule, the EC shall meet at least once per year and particularly during the days preceding a General Assembly. A meeting of the EC may, however, be convened by the President, each time he judges it necessary or by the request of a majority of the members on the EC.
10.7 If a Continental Director cannot attend an EC Meeting, he must either nominate another EC member from his Continental Departament as his replacement or give his proxy to another IKF EC member.
If any other elected member of the EC (i.e. this does not include the Continental Departament) cannot attend the EC meeting for a valid reason, he may give his proxy to another IKF EC member, but cannot send someone as his replacement.
Bye-Laws to Article 10. 7
Members of the EC are expected to attend all EC meetings. Should an emergency arise, or for reasons of illness, or for any other valid reason, which does not permit a member to attend an EC meeting, he shall so notify the Executive-President and the General Secretary in writing, where practicable.
If an EC member cannot attend an EC meeting, the General Secretary is obliged to inform him within 4 weeks of the most important decisions made at that meeting.
All activities of the EC are fixed in an annual calendar, i.e. dates and places of the EC meetings; dates and places of the IKF activities indicating the EC members or Commission members who have to attend; dates and places of the events (IKF, national or international organizations) which have to be attended by IKF representatives.
Duration and main contents of the meeting are fixed in the approved annual calendar.
An agenda must be established for each meeting. The EC members shall submit to the General Secretary the items they wish to have included in the agenda four(4) weeks prior to the date fixed for the meeting. The General Secretary prepares the agenda, advises the Executive-President and then circulates the invitations together with the agenda and the necessary working papers two(2) weeks prior to the meeting. Should an urgent matter arise, it may be added to the agenda and discussed in the EC Meeting with a majority of the EC
A time-table must be fixed and agreed upon before an Ordinary EC meeting.
10.8 When for any reason whatsoever an ordinary EC meeting cannot take place, urgent decisions may be taken following an exchange of any form of written communication. In the case where a decision has been reached by written communication, the validity of it is the same as one made at an ordinary EC meeting.
Bye-Law to Article 10. 8
The tasks and the working method of the EC are based on the Statutes of the IKF Art. 10. All decisions regarding the activities of the IKF are made by the EC. In case of emergency, consultation has to be made by telex , telephone , e-mail or cable with the members of the EC. On the basis of the Statutes and General Assembly decisions, the EC directs the IKF activities between each General Assembly. The EC shall render for the benefit of the forthcoming General Assembly, a report of its activities.
10.9 The EC shall make all decisions regarding the activities of the IKF between each General Assembly and shall approve or disapprove any urgent decisions undertaken by the President
Bye-Laws to Article 10. 9
All important questions are treated within the EC by means of Working papers. Commissions and/or temporary Working Groups can assist in elaborating these documents. The individual responsibilities of each Commission are determined by the field of activities of the EC member or are delegated to one member by the President.
10.10 The EC shall make all its decisions by simple majority. Only in the event of a tie shall the President or the duly appointed chairperson have a deciding vote.
10.11 In order to be considered valid, any meeting of the EC must include at least half of it members of which three must be Continental Directors , and be presided over by the Executive-President, or in the event of his absence, by Secreatry General or one of the Vice-Presidents in this order.
10.12 To be assisted in their work, the Continental Directors may form commissions and/or working groups inside the continental departaments . Their members must be appointed and approved by National Federations of every department .
Bye-Laws to Article 10.12
The EC may charge the Commissioners and Temporary Working Groups with special tasks and controls their accomplishment.
10.13 All members of the EC are accountable to the EC meeting and the General Assembly.
10.14 In connection with EC Meetings, the General Secretary shall provide to each EC Member, prior to their departure, Key Point Information of the Minutes of the meeting.
Bye-Laws to Article 10.14
1) Key Point Information
Before departing from the EC meeting, the General Secretary shall produce Key Point Information, which includes the finalized main decisions made during the EC meeting. Any objections to the Key Point Information must be sent to the General Secretary within seven days of the EC Meeting.
The Continental Departaments shall distribute the Key Point Information to its respective member National Federations, after they have been approved by the EC.
2) Draft Minutes
The Draft Minutes of EC Meetings shall be sent to each EC member before the next EC meeting, and then approved by the EC at the following EC meeting. The finalized Minutes shall be distributed to each Member National Federation and Continental Union after the EC meeting has been closed.
10.15 To request a non confidence vote against a member or members of the EC, a minimum of one-third of the member National Federations entitled to vote from 3 different continents are required, which is to be forwarded to the General Secretary. The General Secretary will forthwith submit the said request for a non confidence vote to the EC. Thereupon the voting shall be conducted during the next General Assembly. A minimum of two thirds majority is required to approve the non-confidence. In the case where the non-confidence vote is passed by the General Assembly, the said EC member will lose his post forthwith and the EC may appoint an interim EC member as his replacement.

Article 11 - President

11.1 The President is elected by the General Assembly. He represent the image of IKF and represents it before third parties in protocol and diplomatic meetings.
11.2 In the case of an absence of the President during his term in office by reason of resignation or for any other reason, the Presidency shall be assumed by the Executive-President of the IKF that is to be nominated by the EC. The interim President shall serve until the next General Assembly where the General Assembly will elect a new president in accordance with Article 10.6.
Bye-Laws to Article 11
The President must comply with the IKF Statutes, Rules and decisions. The President has the right to entrust EC members and Commissions to solve specific problems and to appoint, with the approval of the EC, temporary Working Groups.

Article 12 – Executive-President

12.1 There is one Executive-President which shall be elected by the Congress of the IKF .
12.2 The activities of the Executive-President are based on the Statutes, Rules and decisions of the International Kempo Federation.
12.3 The Executive-President support the activities of the EC and assist the President in his work.
12.4 The Executive-President take care about the management of the IKF, its developing and promoting.
12.5 The Executive-President shall guide and manage the sporting activities in the fighting system of the IKF including the coordination of doping control and is also responsible for proposals of development and changes to the Rules and Regulations of sports activities as well as for the amelioration of competition systems.
12.6 The Executive-President assist the President and replace him whenever necessary.
12.7 The Executive-President is required to keep current and accurate records of General Assembly and EC Meetings in his specific field.
12.8 The Executive-President shall control sporting activities and supervise the adherence to the sporting rules and decisions.
12.9 The Executive-President shall elaborate the annual sporting plan and the regulations for the World Championships and other events.
12.10 The Executive-President is responsible for the fluid operation of competition systems as well as for the Sporting and Organization Rules.
12.11 The Executive-President is in charge with IKF PR, communication with IKF Members, and with attending the IKF aims as it is written in this statue.
12.12 The Executive-President will liaise with the IOC Solidarity Office, as well as with all IOC’s partners for attending the IKF aims.
12.13 The Executive-President is also responsible for the negotiations with the IKF official suppliers, and TV rights to the IKF Kempo Events.

Article 13 – Vicepresidents

13.1 There are two Vice-Presidents (Kempo Sport and Traditional Kempo) elected by the IKF General Assembly.                                                                                                                                           
13.2 The Vicepresident of the Sport Kempo Commision is responsible for sporting activity and its development in the International Kempo Federation.
13.2(1) He assists by advising and controlling the preparations for the World Championships and other events and also directs the preparation and course of the competitions with the assistance of other members of the EC and Commission members.
13.2(2) He assumes the role of Technical Delegate for the different international kempo events organized by other associations, federations and organizations.
13.2(3) He is a member and the chairperson of the Sport Kempo Commission. He is responsible for the fulfillment of the tasks of his Commission and ensures that reports and minutes are written.

13.3 The Vicepresident of Traditional Kempo Commision shall guide and manage the traditional kempo/kenpo activities of the IKF and is responsible for proposals of development and changes regarding kempo/kenpo education.
13.3(1) He is required to keep current and accurate records of the General Assembly and EC Meetings in his specific field.
13.3(2) He is responsible for the traditional kempo activities like seminars, gatherings, and their development.
13.3(3) He shall control traditional kempo activities and is responsible for adherence to the direction given by the Congress or EC.
13.3(4) He shall elaborate the annual Plan including the schedule .
13.3(5) He is responsible for making recommendations to the EC and General Assembly to carry out studies to further the development of kempo/kenpo.
13.3(6) He is a member and the chairperson of the Traditional Kempo Commission.
13.3(7) He is responsible for the fulfillment of the tasks of his Commission and ensures that reports and minutes are written.
13.3(8) He is in charge of proposing criterias for the IKF grading/ranking.

Article 14 - Chairmen of Referees

14.1 There are 2 IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions (Fighting Kempo and Traditional Kempo).
14.2 The both IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions are elected by the Executive Committee.
14.3 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions shall guide and manage their refereeing activities of the IKF and is responsible for the proposals of development and changes to the Rules and Regulations regarding the refereeing of kempo .
14.4 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions is required to keep current and accurate records of Congress and EC Meetings in his specific field.
14.5 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions is responsible for refereeing activity and its development in the International Kempo Federation.
14.6 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions shall control their refereeing activities and supervise the adherence to the Refereeing Rules on refereeing and decisions.
14.7 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions shall elaborate the annual refereeing plan and the regulations for the World Championships and other events.
14.8 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions is responsible for the amelioration of Refereeing Rules on refereeing in their field.
14.9 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions assists by advising and controlling the preparation in their departament of the World Championships and other events and directs refereeing activities before and during the course of the competitions, with the assistance of other members of the EC and commission members.
14.10 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions controls and coordinates the referee examinations organized by the Departaments .
14.11 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions are responsible for the fulfillment of the tasks of htheir commissions and ensures that reports and minutes are written.
14.12 The IKF Chairmen of the Refereeing Commisions must compile a list of all accredited IKF referees.

Article 15 – Continental Directors

15.1 The Continental Directors are elected by the National Federations from each continent in part . He develop and lead the whole kempo activity on his continent, and represent IKF in their continent (as prescribed by IOC).

Article 16 - Secretary General

16.1 The Secretary General is elected by the General Assembly. The Secretariat of the IKF is located in the city or place wherein the Secretary General resides, unless otherwise decided by the General Assembly.
16.2 He is responsible for the work and administration of the Secretariat and the relations with the Continental Departaments and the IKF Members.
16.3 He is responsible for the administrative work of the IKF in accordance with the Statutes and Rules and for the adherence to the decisions of the EC and of the General Assembly .
16.4 He holds close contact with all EC members of the IKF, the Chairpersons of the Commissions, the General Secretaries of the Continental Departaments and with the IKF Members .
16.5 He is responsible for the information and the correspondence within the International Kempo Federation and, in agreement with the Executive-President, towards third parties.
16.7 He is responsible for the organization of General Assembly and EC meetings.
16.8 He shall establish the agendas for those meetings and compile the necessary documents which are circulated by him or her together with the invitation.
16.9 He sends the invitations and regulations for the World and Continental Championships and other important events.
16.10 He elaborates the minutes of General Assembly and EC meetings.
16.11 He must keep detailed records about World/ International and Continental Kempo/Kenpo championships results.
16.12 He must provide to all IKF Members copies of their competition results if needed.
16.13 He provide the Competition Book to each team participating to the event.
16.14 The Secretary General must ensure that all fees and payments have been paid on time and to maintain an amicable relationship with each party.
16.16 He is also in charge of copyrighting the logo of the IKF.

 
Article 17 - General Treasurer

17.1 The General Treasurer is elected by the Congress.
17.2 He is responsible for the Treasury of the IKF and shall be responsible for keeping regular accounts.
17.3 He shall represent the IKF before third parties, as directed by the Executive-President.
17.4 All income and expenses must be included in the budget as approved by the EC. Any expenses not included in the budget or approved by the EC before being incurred, requires prior authorization by the President and the General Treasurer.
17.5 For each EC meeting the General Treasurer shall provide an up-to-date report of the financial situation of the IKF.
17.6 The General Treasurer is responsible for administering the Treasury of the International Kempo Federation .
17.7 He keeps the journal, prepares financial statements, and elaborates the annual plan of finances.
17.8 He administers the capital of the IKF and settles its financial obligations.
17.9 The General Treasurer must be consulted in all financial matters and shall assist at each negotiation on financial matters.
17.10 The Treasurer shall look for possibilities of increasing the Treasury of the IKF and shall submit proposals to the Executive Committee.
17.11 The financial activities must not annul or restrict the rights fixed in the Statutes of the IKF, Continental Departaments and of the IKF Members.


Article 18 - IKF EVENTS

18.1 The followings is classfified as IKF events:
18.1(1)the World and Continental Championships, the Junior World and Continental Championships, the World and Continental Championships by Teams, World and Continental Cups, open cups, any international tournaments organized by IKF Members .
18.1(2) Seminars, Training Camps, Gatherings, Conventiosn organized by the IKF Members.
18.2 All member National Federations shall have the right to apply for the organization of an IKF event in accordance with the Rules of the IKF.
18.3 The IKF members that wishes to organize an IKF event must apply to the General Secretariat .
18.4 If there is no candidate to host a particular IKF event, other than the World and Continental Championships before the appropriate Congress, the EC will decide the organizer of an IKF event .
18.5 An IKF Member must submit their proposal to organize an IKF event 6 months before the appropriate General Assembly to the General Secretary, who will forward it to all IKF EC members. Representatives from the applying IKF members will be invited to an EC Meeting to present their proposal before the EC. At the following General Assembly, the EC will inform the about all the applicants and will make recommendations.
18.6 The term for bidings is:
18.6(1)The World and Continental Championships will be determined a minimum of 2 years before it occurs;
18.6(2)The Junior World and Continental Championships will be determined a minimum of 2 years before it occurs; and
18.6(3)The Team World and Continental Championships will be determined a minimum of 2 years before it occurs.
18.7(4) All cups, open tournaments, international tournaments, gatherings, seminars, conventions,  will be determined a minimum 1 year before it occurs;

Article 19 - IKF Commissions

The IKF shall have the following standing commissions:
-a Sport Kempo Commission;
-a Traditional Kempo Commission;
-a Refereeing Commission
-a Medical Commission
The Vicepresidents and Refereeing Chairmen shall chair their respective commissions. The composition of these commissions is defined in the Bye-Laws.
Bye-Laws to Article 19
Tasks and Working Method of the Commissions
Duration of the Mandates
The members nominated by their Continental Departaments and the members nominated by the EC will remain in office until withdrawn by their Continental Departaments or by the EC.
Authority
The Commissions come under the authority of the EC of the International Kempo Federation. All their proposals or suggestions must be presented to the EC which will decide what action, if any, shall be taken.Working Method
Written communications
The correspondence within the Commission is directed by the Chairperson or by an appointed secretary. The correspondence to the EC or to other Commissions will be realized through the General Secretary.
-Extraordinary Meeting
Extraordinary meetings can be convened on the proposal of the Chairperson, or the EC or by the Congress.
-Ordinary Meetings
Ordinary meetings will be fixed in the annual calendar of the IKF, if proposed by the Chairperson and approved by the EC.
Bye-Laws for the Sports Commission:
Composition
The Sport Commission shall be composed of the Technical Director of the Sport Commision of the IKF, who is the chair of the commission, and one member from each Continental Departament . Members may only be nominated provided they have the agreement of their respective Continental Departament and National Federation.
Role and Functions:
The Commission supports the work of the Sport Director of the IkF. Its main tasks are:
-to elaborate calendars for several years . Tthe Sport Commission must communicate with the countries which are candidates to organize the championships,
-to act so that the sporting events registered in the IKF calendar can be organized according to the rules,
-to assist and offer advice to the organizer,
-to study the competition system and the rules that are likely to improve them,
-to examine all questions linked with the sporting aspects of kempo discipline,
-to be responsible for the medical aspects of kempo and also collaborate with the IOC Medical Director for questions concerning anti-doping control in cooperation with the IKF Medical Commissioner,
-to organize courses, organizing seminars and exhibitions and educational forums on a continental and worldwide level to ensure worldwide consistency,
-to meet with Refereeing and Traditional Commissions to ensure all IKF technical matters are discussed and agreed upon,
-to carry out and study issues assigned to the commission by the EC,
-to ensure use of the annual budget is done in the most efficient and effective manner,
-to approve tournament sites and technical personnel for all World and Continental Championships from a sporting perspective,
-to maintain updating of the Sports and Organization Rules
Bye-Laws for the Refereeing Commission
Composition:
The Refereeing Commission shall be composed of the Refereeing Chairmen of the IKF, who is the chair of the commission, and one member from each Continental Departament . Members may only be nominated provided they have the agreement of their respective Continental Departament and National Federation. All commission members must hold an IKF International license.
Role and Functions:
The Commission supports the work of the Refereeing Chairmen of the IKF. Its main tasks are:
-to examine and grant all IKF International licenses throughout the world, to ensure that all IKF sanctioned events are conducted in accordance with the IKF Refereeing Rules and Regulations,
-to establish a permanent contact with the continental Refereeing Commissions in order to interpret all IKF Rules,
-to approve tournament sites and technical personnel for all World Championships and Continental Championships from a refereeing perspective,
-to evaluate referees to "A", "RA" at every World Championships and Junior World Championships,
-to create an IKF Refereeing Commission roster list for World Championships to ensure best possible referees are selected,
-to present to the IKF EC the names of the referees for the events registered in the calendar; chosen from the recommended lists presented by each continent,
-to keep an up to date database of all IKF International and Continental examinations and lists of active, inactive and retired licensed referees worldwide,
-to meet with Sports and Traditional Kempo Commissions to ensure all IKF technical matters are discussed and agreed upon,
-to promote interest in, and study and practice of refereeing around the world,
-to organize courses, seminars and exhibitions and educational forums on a continental and world wide level to ensure world wide consistency,
-to provide financial incentives and support for Continental Departaments in need of referees skill development and upgrading,
-to produce audio-visual tapes for distribution to all Continental Departaments to ensure latest rules and regulations are known and used around the world,
-to ensure Refereeing Rules are re-printed every four (4) years,
-to ensure use of the annual budget is done in the most efficient and effective manner,
-to carry out and study issues assigned to the commission by the EC.

Bye-Laws for the Traditional Kempo Commission
Composition
The Education Commission shall be composed of the Traditional Kempo Director of the IKF, who is the chair of the commission, and one member from each Continental Departament . Members may only be nominated provided they have the agreement of their respective Continental Departament and National Federation.
Role and Functions:
The Commission supports the work of the Traditional Kempo Director of the IKF. Its main tasks are:
-to study and execute systematical activities for the development and diffusion of kempo around the world,
-to provide aid and cooperation, especially to developing kempo countries,
-to study methods of education and teaching of kempo and to train instructors,
-to prepare and distribute materials necessary for the education of kempo,
-to gather and make available data concerning medical and scientific subjects related to kempo
-to communicate and support the activities of kata championships ,
-to elaborate the statistical reports of the World Championships,
-to formulate statistics on the development and results of all important Championship events and IkF events and to publish periodically summaries of the statistical reports,
-to organize courses, coaching seminars and exhibitions and educational forums on a continental and world wide level to ensure world wide consistency,
-to meet with Refereeing and Sports Commissions to ensure all IKF technical matters are discussed and agreed upon,
-to carry out and study issues assigned to the commission by the EC.
-to ensure use of the annual budget is done in the most efficient and effective manner.

Article 20 - IKF Commissioners

The EC shall appoint, among others, the following commissioners according to its requirements:

Media Commissioner;
The Media Commissioner shall organize and coordinate all media activities of the International Kempo Federation in cooperation with the EC.

Sport Commissioner;
The Sport Commissioner shall support the EC and submit proposals for decision in connection with the forthcoming International Olympic Comitee and General Assembly of International Sport Federations .

Medical Commissioner;
The Medical Commissioner shall advise the EC concerning medical matters and anti-doping control.

The commissioners are not EC members, but they may participate in EC Meetings at the request of the President or other EC members. All commissioners are accountable to the EC.

Bye-Laws of Media Commissioner:
Duration of the Mandate
The appointment of the Media commissioner of the IKF shall be for a period of two years.
Role and Function
-The Media Commissioner is the official liaison of the IKF to the media. In accordance with the Statutes of the IKF, he or she will be appointed by the EC.
-The Media Commissioner organizes and coordinates all media activities of the International Kempo Federation in cooperation with the IKF EC. He controls the official IKF-publications, whether it be written, spoken or on film.
-The Media Commissioner shall have the final decision regarding the admission of media personal for all IKF events, that includes written press, photographers, radio and TV-journalists and TV or film camera controlled and allocated areas for written press, photographers and electronic press
-The Media Commissioner is the adviser in all questions concerning media activities to the IKF EC. He shall use his expertise for the preparation of TV contracts.

Bye-Laws of Sport Commissioner of the IKF
On the proposal of the Organizing Committee of the World Championships , the EC of the IKF may appoint a Commissioner of the IKF. This proposal must be supported by the National Kempo Federation of the country whose city is hosting the event
Duration of the Mandate
The appointment of the Sport Commissioner of the IKF shall be for a period of one 4 years and may not be extended. The Sport Commissioner's post will conclude at the first EC Meeting following the closing of the World Championship .
Authority
The IKF Sport Commissioner shall be entitled to attend all EC meetings to be held during the period of the World Championships .
He shall not have the right to decide or to vote within the EC.
The Sport Commissioner shall support the EC on administrative issues and the IKF Technical Delegates on operational issues in connection with world championship matters and shall also submit proposals to them for decision.
Role and Function
-to advise the EC and particularly the IkF Technical Delegates concerning matters of organization with regard to the forthcoming event .
-to assure (or maintain) permanent contact with the Organizing Committee
-to prepare agreements to be entered into with the host or other institutions of the host country
-to advise and submit proposals to the EC in agreement with the IKF Technical Delegates regarding appointments to posts on the Organizing Committee of the kempo event concerned
Expenses
The expenses of the Sport Commissioner shall be covered by the National Federation or the Organizing Committee of the World Championship . In exceptional cases, when fulfilling special missions of the IkF, the expenses may be borne by the IKF upon decision by the EC.
Bye-Laws of Medical Commissioner
On the proposal either of the National Kempo Federation of the country which will host the World Championships or of the Continental Departament to which the country belongs, the EC of the IKF may appoint a Medical Commissioner.
Duration of the Mandate
The appointment of the Medical Commissioner of the IkF shall be for a period of two years.
Authority
The IkF Medical Commissioner shall be entitled to attend EC meetings and Sports Commission meetings that are held during the two year period preceding the World Championships, at the request of the IkF President.
He will have no right to vote within the EC.
The IKF Medical Commissioner shall support the EC, and the Sports Vicepresident, particularly in the matter of anti-doping control.
Role and Function
-to advise the EC and particularly the IKF Sports Commission concerning medical matters and aspects related with the kempo practice
-to be responsible for the carrying out of the anti-doping controls in the IkF in coordination with the Sports Commission
-to elaborate for the IKF and to submit them to the EC all documents dealing with medical and anti-doping questions based on the decisions of the Medical Commission of the International Olympic Committee
-to support the Refereeing Commission and the Sports Commission with regards to medical questions at the World Championships
-to control and supervise medical facilities and services during World Championships and eventually some other IKF events depending the requests of the IKF EC
-to participate to the organization of medical symposium if requested by the IKF EC
-to contribute to the coordination between the organizing country and the IKF EC

Article 21 - Fiscal Period

The financial and accounting fiscal period of the International Kempo Federation starts on 1 January and ends on 31 December in each year.

Article 22 - Income and Expenditure

22.1 All the expenses of the IKF are covered by the annual dues of the IKF Members, by TV broadcasting rights, by license fees from sponsors, donations and by all remittances from other sources.
22.2 IKF Members must pay each year to the IKF treasury the annual fee as fixed by the General Assembly, upon written demand from the IKF General Treasurer to the Continental Departaments .
22.3 An IKF Member whose membership fees to the IKF has not been paid by 3 months before World or Continental Championships, will not be permitted to take part in any events held under the auspices of the IKF.
22.4 All IKF EC personnel or jut some of them can be paid for their services if the Congress decide that . Their traveling and living expenses, however, will be assumed by the IKF during all meetings and official missions with the exception of meetings or missions for which expenses are assumed by another organization.
22.6 All the television, radio, film, photographical, contractual and proprietorial rights of the World Championships and of Inter-Continental events organized by the IKF are the exclusive property of the IKF. These rights may not be sold or negotiated without the written agreement of the EC, who may delegate its authority to negotiate the sale or utilization of these rights, but who shall retain the sole responsibility for the final decision and for the utilization of the income from the sale of the rights.
22.7 All copyright of the IKF belongs to the IKF. Member National Federations or Continental Departaments may use the emblem only for the purpose of developing kempo in their own Federations or Departaments .
22.8 The IKF events are the exclusive property of the IKF which owns all rights relating thereto, in particular, and without limitation, the rights relating to their organization, exploitation, broadcasting and reproduction by any means whatsoever.

Article 23 - Auditing of Accounts
The General Treasurer shall recommend an internationally acceptable public accounting firm to the EC. If the EC accepts the appointment of the accounting firm for the auditing of the IKF accounts, the General Treasurer will oversee the control of the auditing process of the IKF accounts, once before the Ordinary Congress and once between the Congress. At the request of the EC, a representative from the appointed accounting firm may attend the EC Meeting and/or the Congress.

Article 24 - Expulsion, Resignation, Suspension

24.1 A National Federation may be expelled from the IKF for one of the following reasons:
a) As a result of expulsion from its Continental Departament . A National Federation expelled from its Continental Departament shall have the right of appeal to the IKF.
b) Non-payment of fees
-A National Federation may only be expelled by a two-thirds majority vote by Congress.
24.2 A National Federation that has not paid their annual fees to the IKF by the required date may be suspended from all international activities until payment of all amounts due is received.
24.3 A National Federation whose account is still outstanding at the date fixed for the Congress, shall not have the right to participate in the work of the Congress.
24.4 Any Federation which has resigned or been expelled from the IKF and wishes to rejoin it, will have to pay a re-entry fee which may be equivalent to up-to a maximum of twice the amount it would have had to pay had it remained a member.
24.5 If a National Federation contravenes the Statutes of the IKF or acts against the IKF, its principles or its purposes, the Executive Committee, in agreement with and through the intermediation of the Union concerned, may restrain or suspend the activities of the said Federation for such time as the Executive Committee sees fit.
The Executive Committee shall also have the power to suspend an individual participant who is affiliated with the IKF, or any National Federation which is a member of the IKF, if, in the opinion of the Executive Committee, the individual or National Federation acts against the IKF, its principles, or its purposes.
Such suspension shall be from all competitive events for such time as the Executive Committee sees fit
The suspension may be imposed either : (1) after an appropriate hearing against the individual; or, (2) prior to and until the conduct of a hearing on the matter where the Executive Committee finds that there is strong evidence of serious misconduct.
24.6 All actions, with the exception of expulsion, taken by a Continental Departament with regard to one of its member federations shall entail the recognition of this action by the IKF.
24.7 In the interest of the development of kempo and the raising of its technical level in all countries, friendly sporting relations with countries which are not yet members of the IKF are authorized.
24.8 In the event that any judicial, quasi-judicial, administrative, or regulatory proceeding should arise in which a member National Federation and/or the International Kempo Federation is required to expend resources to defend itself and/or the sport of Kempo then the member National Federation shall bear any and all responsibility for, indemnify and hold harmless the International Kempo Federation against any legal action, costs, and repercussions that may occur as a result of legal action. Member National Federations recognize this responsibility arises from the fact that they have been officially delegated all rights and responsibilities for and on behalf of the sport of Kempo within the specified Continental Departaments in accordance with the IKF Statutes.
24.9 A member National Federation may not claim any damages against the International Kempo Federation.
If a member National Federation fails to indemnify the International Kempo Federation for any repercussions, including but not limited to awards of damages against the International Kempo Federation and/or attorneys fees incurred by the International Kempo Federation in its defense, that arise from legal proceedings, then the International Kempo Federation shall suspend the member National Federation from all international activity

Article 25 - Grades

25.1 The IKF recognizes only those grades which are awarded officially by the IKF to its members. Any grade awarded without this agreement will not be recognized by the IKF.
25.2 The issuance of IKF Dan Grade Diplomas and ID Cards shall be exercised by the Director of the Continental Departament wherein it originates. For awards of 8th Dan or above, the issuance shall be exercised after the EC confers and approves the final award of the IKF Dan Diploma and ID-Card. The cost of the IKF Dan Diploma and Card which is to be paid to the IKF shall be determined by the EC and approved by the IKF Congress
25.3 The recipient of a Dan certificate from a National Federation that differs from his own National Federation cannot be issued a higher level Dan certificate than the one he possesses in his own National Federation, unless the Dan certificate being issued is an honorary one. The recipient of a Dan certificate from the IKF also cannot be issued a higher level Dan certificate than the one he possesses in his own National Federation.
Bye-Laws to Article 25
If an applicant wishes to receive an IKF Dan certificate, levels 8 through 10, he must first obtain a letter of recommendation from their respective National Federation, which is to be submitted in turn to their respective Continental Departament . The Continental Departament or its appointed commission will then review the applicant's credentials and decide whether, on the merits, if the application should be approved. If they decide in favor of the applicant, the Director of the applicant's Continental Departament shall submit his own letter of recommendation for the IKF EC' approval. The Director of the applicant's Continental Departament will then present the applicant with the requested Dan certificate upon the approval of the application by the IKF EC.
Additionally, a Continental Departament may, if it so wishes, appoint a Dan Commission to establish guidelines for the award of Dan and the issuance of the IKF Dan Diplomas.

Article 26 - IKF Honors and Awards

26.1 The EC may bestow the title of Honorary President, Honorary Officers, Honorary Members to personalities or dignitaries who have been of outstanding service or have made significant contributions to the IKF. Nominations for such posts shall be presented by the EC, Continental Departaments and National Federations.
Bye-Laws to Article 26.1
Titles
The EC may recommend for the approval of the Congress of the International Kempo Federation, the bestowing of the following titles and awards on persons who have rendered distinguished of special service to the development of international kempo
Honorary President of the IKF
Honorary Officer of the IKF
Honorary Member of the IKF
Qualification
Honorary President of the IKF Past Presidents of IKF with more than 8 years
Honorary Officer of the IKF Past EC Members with more than 8 years
Honorary Member of the IKF Past EC Members with more than 4 years
Past Commission Members with more than 8 years
Past Presidents of N. F. with more than 8 years
Nomination procedure
Proposals for IKF Honors and Awards shall be submitted in written form to the General Secretary, for the attention of the EC. The nomination shall include all supporting details of background and service in Kempo. The EC will then make the decision.
26.2 Honorary Presidents, Honorary Officers and Honorary Members may attend Congresses and other events of the IKF, subject to the Bye-Laws of this Article.
Bye-Laws to Article 26. 2
Awards Criteria and Privileges
The conferring of this honor shall be advertised internationally through the IKF media. The Honorary President is further entitled to receive a complementary Honored Guest entry card to all events in the IKF calendar. His or her expenses will be reimbursed according to the IKF Rules.
26.3 Awards - The EC may bestow awards to personalities or dignitaries who have been of outstanding service or have made significant contributions to the IKF. Nominations for such awards shall be presented by the EC, Continental Departaments and National Federations.
Bye-Laws to Article 26. 3
The EC may recommend for the approval of the Congress of the International Kempo Federation, the bestowing of the following titles and awards on persons who have rendered distinguished of special service to the development of international Kempo
Medal of Merit of the IKF - Gold Award
Medal of Merit of the IKF - Silver Award
Medal of Merit of the IKF - Bronze Award
Nomination procedure
Proposals for IKF Awards shall be submitted in writing to the General Secretary. The nomination shall include all supporting details of the person and his background and service to kempo . The EC will decide who will receive the said awards.
Medal of Merit of the IKF - Gold Award
Past EC Members and Foundation members
Medal of Merit of the IKF - Silver Award
a)Past Commission Members with more than 8 years
b) National President with more than 8 years.
c) Continental Union EC Member with more than 8 years.
Medal of Merit of the IKF - Bronze Award
a) Past Commission Members,
b) National President
c) Continental Union EC Members
d) IKF International Referees with more than 12 years.
Medal of Merit of the IKF
The Congress may award the IKF Medal of Merit for outstanding achievement in the development of a National Federation, organization or institution. It may also be awarded to persons who have attained outstanding distinction in a national or international capacity, in an organizational or technical field associated with the IKF or a Continental Departament
The presentation to award the IKF Medal of Merit will be made, where possible, during the IKF Congress, World Championships, Continental Championships or other such appropriate occasions. The recipient will receive a medal and the award published in the IKF Media.
The IKF General Secretary shall maintain a register of recipients of IKF Honors and Award and provide them with invitations and information as appropriate.
Following the approval of the EC, the awards and distinctions shall be conferred upon the nominee by the President of the International Kempo Federation or his defined delegate.

Article 27 - Modifications to the Statutes

27.1 For anything which is not covered by these present Statutes, the EC may take action in accordance with the decisions of the Congress or take the necessary decision which must then be submitted for approval to the next Congress.
27.2 Modifications of the Statutes must be approved by a 2/3 majority of the Congress,
27.3 Modifications to the Statutes become effective after the Congress .

Article 28 - Bye-Laws and Rules

The IKF, in addition to its Statutes, shall establish Bye-Laws and Rules. The Bye-Laws and Rules shall be enacted and changed by the EC. These changes shall be submitted at the following Congress for approval.

Article 29 . Foundation Members

The IKF Foundation Members are those juridical persons who started and created the IKF .
They are IKF Full-Members formed in the IKF Founding Members Council.
In case of the impossibility to take a decision or to elect somebody because of a General Assembly ballot, the IKF Founding Members Council will decide with majority simple .

Article 30 - Tribunal

The Parties should try to settle any legal dispute arising from or in connection to the Statutes, Bye-Laws, or any other Rules made by the IKF. If the parties cannot settle such dispute amicably, it shall be settled by the exclusive jurisdiction of the Court of Arbitration for Sports in Lausanne, Switzerland, in accordance with` the IKF Statutes and Rules. All decisions made by the Court of Arbitration for Sports are final and binding upon the parties.

Article 31 - Dissolution

The IKF shall not be dissolved except by a Congress specially convened for that purpose and by a proposal carried by a majority of 2/3 of the votes cast. In the case of dissolution, the property and funds of the International Kempo Federation will be divided amongst its foundation members

*The "IKF Constitution" works toghether with the "IKF-General Rules of Organizing","IKF-Kempo Sport Manual" and "IKF-Traditional Kempo Manual"