Official Announcement from the World Kumite Organization (WKO)

Subject: Commitment to Non-Political Stance in Global Conflicts

Dear Members and Supporters of the WKO,

The World Kumite Organization (WKO) wishes to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to a non-political stance regarding global conflicts.

Our charter and bylaws explicitly prohibit any involvement in political disputes between nations, including those in conflict zones.

The WKO does not condone war or any actions that lead to the oppression of individuals, communities, or groups based on nationality, religion, or race.

This position applies equally to all parties involved in any conflict. As part of our international events, participants are encouraged to bring their national flags to celebrate their achievements.

When a competitor stands on the podium wearing their flag, it signifies their victory and is not a political endorsement for any nation.

We recognize that some organizations may seek to leverage sporting events for political purposes. However, the WKO firmly maintains that our tournaments will not serve as platforms for promoting bias or political agendas.

In the spirit of Budo, we believe that all individuals are equal and should not be judged by the actions of others.

We uphold that all races are equal, regardless of skin color, and all religions should be respected without prejudice.

Therefore, we urge all WKO members to refrain from expressing bias towards any nation or individual during  WKO sporting events.

Victory should be celebrated as a testament to personal skill and dedication, regardless of the competitor’s background or country he or she is from.

Together, let us uphold the values of unity and respect that define our organization.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the principles of the WKO. Sincerely,

Kancho R McInnes

President   
World Kumite Organization (WKO)

Guidelines for Shihan and Promoters to Sanction Tournaments as WKO Events.
 
These guidelines outline the requirements for Shihan and promoters wishing to promote their tournaments as official WKO events, ensuring consistency, integrity, and recognition within the WKO community.

Event Sanctioning Requirements

1. **Display of Logos** – The WKO logo must be prominently displayed with equal status alongside the promoter’s logo and signage at all event locations.

2. **WKO ID Cards** – All competitors Should possess a WKO QR-coded ID, which serves as an interactive identification card that can be scanned to reveal full membership information.  Promoters are encouraged to offer discounts on entry fees for competitors holding WKO ID cards, at the promoter’s discretion.

3. **Judges and Referees** – All judges and referees must be certified for the level of competition they will oversee. Certification ensures that officials are qualified to maintain the integrity of the competition.

4. **Supervision by WKO Executive Member** – For international tournaments, a minimum of one WKO executive member must supervise the event.
– If travel is required for the WKO executive member, the promoter is responsible for supporting these costs, including accommodation, travel, and food.

5. Rule Submission – Any rules differing from those listed on the WKO website must be submitted to the WKO head office at least four months prior to the event.
– If only amendments to existing WKO regulations are needed, simply submit the amendments. The WKO will publish the amendments or the full set of rules specific to the competition.

Sanctioning Fees
– Regional 
-Full Contact Events: $150 USD
– Kata Events: $100 USD
– Embu Competitions: $100 USD

 World Tournament 
-Full Contact Events: $500 USD
– Kata Events: $200 USD
– Embu Competitions: $200 USD

 Rights and Usage of WKO Logos
– Promoters have full rights to utilize the WKO logos for memorabilia, advertising, and certificates for winners and competitors.
– WKO title belts are available for $175 USD each if required.

 Local Tournament Guidelines


Local tournaments ,
-Dojo or inter club  competitions organized by WKO registered members may display the WKO logo on promotional materials in the bottom right-hand corner, accompanied by the phrase “Official WKO Member.”

– WKO does not charge a sanctioning fee for local tournaments or minor events that are not classified as regional or international.

By adhering to these guidelines, Shihan and promoters can ensure that their tournaments align with WKO standards and contribute to the growth and recognition of karate worldwide. Thank you for your commitment to excellence in promoting our beloved sport.