Conference Agenda

Purpose: The Netherlands has a unique system in place for systematic monitoring of sports and physical activity, with the use of Key-indicators. For the first time, the factsheet containing the essential information about the Key-indicators has been translated into English, thereby extending the reach to the global community. To support the goal of an active and sportive society, key-indicators have been established to address important facilitators and outcome measures, providing a clear signaling function for the national government. An additional aim is to disseminate local-level data for every Key-indicator when feasible. Each indicator is represented by a single numerical value, enabling the presentation of complex information in a communicable and visually appealing overview.

Methods: Key-indicators were developed collaboratively with stakeholders in 2014 and formalized by the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport. A network of organizations was appointed to ensure implementation and maintenance, including Statistics Netherlands, VeiligheidNL, NOC*NSF, Mulier Institute, Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity, and RIVM, which coordinates the network. The network convenes biannually, to ensure quality, comparability, and continuity. In 2024, the Key-indicators were evaluated with the network, policymakers, and researchers. The overview of 25 Key-indicators is updated regularly as new data become available: www.sportenbewegenincijfers.nl/en/key-indicators/factsheet

Results: Key-indicator numbers are updated at least every four years, most annually or biennially. Policymakers have ongoing access to the latest online overview, enabling timely policy adjustments based on emerging trends.

Conclusions: The English translation of the Key-Indicators increases international visibility and supports broader collaboration in public health and sports policy.