Games of the Small States of Europe 2019: A Celebration of Sport in Montenegro
The 2019 Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) were held from May 27 to June 1 in Budva, Montenegro. This biennial event brought together athletes from Europe’s smallest countries, promoting sportsmanship, unity, and friendly competition on a grand stage.
Structure of the Games
The GSSE is organized under the umbrella of the European Olympic Committees and is held every two years, rotating among the nine participating countries. The 2019 edition in Montenegro marked the 18th installment of the Games. The event features a variety of disciplines, allowing athletes from small states to compete at a high level without being overshadowed by larger nations.
Nine countries participated in the 2019 GSSE:
- Andorra
- Cyprus
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Montenegro (host country)
- San Marino
These countries have populations of less than 1 million, providing an opportunity for smaller nations to showcase their sporting talents on an international platform.
The 2019 Games featured a diverse range of sports disciplines, providing a platform for athletes across various sports.
Key disciplines included:
- Athletics
- Swimming
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Table Tennis
- Volleyball
- Shooting
- Judo
- Sailing
Athletes competed in these events over six days, with the host nation Montenegro performing exceptionally well, winning several medals across different categories.
Importance of the Event
The Games of the Small States of Europe serve as more than just a competition; they are a celebration of culture, friendship, and unity. For the participating countries, the GSSE provides an invaluable opportunity to promote physical activity, foster a sense of national pride, and enhance international relations. Hosting the Games also brought economic benefits and global visibility to Montenegro, helping the country showcase its beauty, hospitality, and capability to organize international sporting events.
The 2019 Games in Montenegro set a high standard for future editions, demonstrating that even small states can have a significant impact on the sporting world. The next GSSE is set to continue this legacy, further strengthening the bonds between these unique European nations.