The Ju-Jitsu International Federation (JJIF) was created in 1977, creating a world governing body for the sport for the first time.

Originally known as the European Ju-Jitsu Federation, the body was formed by members from Germany, Italy and Sweden.

A number of other countries joined, so the organisation became the JJIF in 1987.

The JJIF does not represent a single style of ju-jitsu - but instead exists to represent different types of the martial art while sharing knowledge and experience.

To this end, the JJIF serves as "the voice of ju-jitsu in the world of sport" and develops competition systems for different styles.

In 1994, the organisation joined the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) and the International World Games Association (IWGA).

Governance

Panagiotis Theodoropoulos is the President of the JJIF.

The Greek first took the job in 2008 and was elected for a fourth term, stretching to 2024, in November 2021.

His achievements include doubling the number of national members and becoming part of the World Combat Games.

Ju-jitsu was also fully recognised by the Olympic Council Asia during his tenure.

Theodoropoulos is supported by JJIF director general Joachim Thumfart and the JJIF Board.

The Board includes the Presidents of the continental unions - representing Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania and the Americas.

There are also three athlete representatives and two appointed Board members.

The JJIF also operates eight Commissions and Committees.

These are the Athletes' Commission, the Technical Commission, the Entourage Commission, the Ethics Commission, the Medical Commission, the Women's Committee, the Grading Commission and the Jiu-Jitsu Disabled Committee.