The International Chess Federation (FIDE) and IndianOil Corporation are proud to organize the second in-person Chess for Freedom Conference from June 19-21, 2024, in Pune, India. This event will bring together experts from the global chess community to explore the use of chess as a rehabilitation tool for incarcerated individuals.

"As we convene for the Chess for Freedom Conference, our mission extends beyond the chessboard. This gathering is crucial for spreading the transformative power of chess across numerous countries and prisons," said Dana Reizniece-Ozola, Deputy Chairperson of the FIDE Management Board.

"By sharing experiences and methodologies, we not only enhance the scope of our initiatives but also provide vital support for newcomers who are integral to our community. These efforts are essential for developing a framework that empowers incarcerated individuals worldwide, fostering skills that pave the way for their successful reintegration into society."

FIDE warmly invites chess officials, representatives of national federations, members of penitentiary administrations, and policymakers from various countries to engage in discussions on innovative strategies for chess programs in prisons.

The three-day conference will showcase the successful implementation of the Chess for Freedom project across different countries, feature case studies from national initiatives, and present real-life examples of forming prison chess teams competing in the intercontinental tournament. Attendees will also have an opportunity to visit an Indian correctional facility to observe these social programs firsthand.

Event Schedule:

●June 19: Day 1 - Plenary session with various breakout topics.

●June 20: Day 2 - Plenary session with various breakout topics

●June 21: Visit to a Pune prison, including interactions with the prison administration and Chess in Prison program staff.

 The detailed event schedule will be released soon.

This conference will be broadcast live on FIDE's YouTube channel, and participants can join via Zoom to pose questions directly to the speakers.

Registration Information:

To participate in the conference, please complete the following form: forms.gle/519uuACkmfpZorZC8

About the Chess for Freedom Program:

Launched in May 2021 by FIDE and the Cook County Sheriff's Office (Chicago, USA), the Chess for Freedom program emphasizes the rights and opportunities for self-realization and development of incarcerated individuals. Chess not only provides quality recreation but also helps mitigate symptoms like depression, stress, and anxiety. By enhancing memory, logical thinking, concentration, and imagination, chess aids in the reintegration of individuals post-release. The program kicked off with an online conference and an exhibition tournament involving four countries. It has since grown to include the annual Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners, which, in its third edition in October 2023, featured over 100 teams from 50 countries. The FIDE Social Commission also facilitates the Chess For Freedom Network, supporting ongoing or aspiring Chess in Prisons projects through peer access, best practice sharing, workshops, and seminars.

Chess for Freedom Conference – Contact Information:

Lasma Kokorevicha
Secretary of the FIDE Social Commission
Email: sc.secretary@fide.com
WhatsApp: +371 29 221 222