STATUTES

and

REGULATIONS

CONTENTS

STATUTES OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF SILENT CHESS

REGULATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL DEAF CHESS EVENTS OF THE I.C.S.C.

REGULATIONS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TITLES OF THE I.C.S.C.

STATUTES

of the “International Committee of Silent Chess”

ARTICLE I - Introduction

1. The “International Committee of Silent Chess” (I.C.S.C.) which was founded in Copenhagen on August 14, 1949, is an international body uniting the national federations of deaf chess players as the highest autority in matters of deaf chess.

2. The I.C.S.C. is based on democratic principles: its purpose is the promotion of chess among the deaf off all nations, general improvement of their cultural level and chess knowledge and achievement of close international cooperation among chess players in their activites regarding the science of chess and un their other and cultural activities.

3. The I.C.S.C. controls international chess events and supervises observance of the rules. It regulates the award of international titles in the field of deaf chess.

4. The I.C.S.C. strives for a cooperation with other international organisations specialised in chess affairs.

5. The I.C.S.C. is a voluntary organisation.

ARTICLE II - Members

1. National chess organisations of the deaf, or chess sections which are affiliated to national associations of the deaf and act as the highest chess authoritics in their countries, may become country-members of the I.C.S.C., on condition that they undertake to respect the Statutes.

2. Only one organisation may be admitted to the I.C.S.C. to represent a country as a member. This must be an organisation which is officially or generally recognised in the respective country as the responsible national chess organisation of thet country. Unless a member neglects its duties vis-a-vis the I.C.S.C. and, furthermore, fails to comply with the conditions laid down in II/I., no other chess organisation of the same country may be admitted as a country-member.

     This national chess organisation of is admitted as official ICSC country-members with its delegate present at the Congress by a simple majority.

3. The I.C.S.C. observes the principle of equality of its country-members.

4. The I.C.S.C. observes strict neutrality with regard to the national affairs of its country-members.

5. Any request for admission as a country-member is to be directed to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C., which shall take a provisional decision pending approval by the Congress.

     The provisional country-member must support its application to the Congress by its delegates when the application is to be presented.

6. A National Association may be an adherent member if it has no desire to participate in I.C.S.C. events.

7. Every member has the duty to meet its financial obligations vis-a-vis the I.C.S.C. The admission fee is due on admission to the organisation, and the annual subscription by December 31 of each year on simple request by the Treasurer.

     Any member failing to pay its subscription fees three months later by 1^st April shall pay a fine (to be fixed by the Congress), failing again by 1^st July a double fine and yet failing once again by 1^st August a quadruple fine unless a reason for no-payment is to be submitted and found acceptable by the I.C.S.C. Board.

8. Members shall comply with a request by the Executive Board every year to state:

     a.      the name and address of their permanent delegate to the I.C.S.C.

     b.      the composition of its national federation

     c.       the names of its national champions

     d.       their official organ

     e.       their forthcoming international chess events

9. Membership shall be terminated in the following cases:

     a.       resignation from the I.C.S.C. in writing

     b.       temporarily for failure to pay subscriptions for two years

     c.       serious violation of the Statutes and Regulations of the I.C.S.C.

     d.       cessation of a real standing of deaf chess in it own country.

     The Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. is to be informed of any resignation. Membership will then be considered terminated three months after submission of the declaration of resignation, provided that payment of the subscription for the current year has been settled up to that date.

     Any decision on the explulsion of a member for failure to pay the subscription or for a serious violation of the Statutes must be taken by the Board of the I.C.S.C. The decision of the Board of the I.C.S.C. shall be final upon approval by the Congress of the I.C.S.C. The expelled member is not entitled to take part in international chess competitions as long as there is no decision on the part of the Congress.

     Pending the final decision by the Congress of the I.C.S.C. the Board of the I.C.S.C. is entitled to suspend an undisciplined member from participation in International Deaf Chess competitions.

10. If the official national chess organisation of the deaf in the process of dissolving, the office of I.C.S.C. is to informed of such a case by a letter of the resignation in writing.

The dissolved organisation may be replaced by a new organisation having the same objectives provided that it comes from the same country.

ARTICLE III - Congress

1. The Congress is the supreme and legislative body of the I.C.S.C. The Congress is convened every two years during the international games.

2. At the official request of at least half the country-members, or following a decision of the Board, an extraordinary Congress may be convened. The Executive Board shall invite country-members to the Extraordinary Congress not later than three months before it begins.

3. The Congress shall cinsist of delegates of all country-members plus the members of the Board of the I.C.S.C.

     Delegates who must be deaf must present letters of credence from the member organisation, a national deaf chess organisation, showing that they are the rightful delegates of their organisation.

     Every country-member shall have two votes, and every member of the Board of the I.C.S.C. one vote.

     Members of the Board of the I.C.S.C. cannot be delegates at the same time at the I.C.S.C. Congress.

     Adherent members shall have no voting power at the I.C.S.C. Congress.

4. All members of the I.C.S.C. shall submit their motions for the I.C.S.C. Congress to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. not later than four months in advance.

     The Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. shall be responsible for informing all members of the I.C.S.C. about the agenda of the Congress and about the motions submitted not later than three months before the Congress begins.

5. The Congress has the following tasks:

     a.    approval of the report on the activities and the financial report of the Board of the I.C.S.C.;

     b.    decisions on amendments of the Statutes and Regulations of the I.C.S.C.;

     c.    decision on the amount of the annual subscription and ather fees;

     d.    decisions on the motions proposed;

     e.    decision on the admission and expulsion of members;

     f.     disharge and election of the President and the members of the Board of the I.C.S.C. for a term of four years to take place during the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships.

     g.    decision on the place and date of the next World Deaf Chess Championship and on definite venus up to four years and provisional venues thereafter.

     h.    decision on the official language of the I.C.S.C.

6. The decisions of the Congress are taken with a simple majority. In case of a draw the President shall give the casting vote.

     The vote may be either secret or open, according to the decision of the Congress itself.

     All communications of absent members relating to the Congress must be read out prior to the vote.

     The minutes of the procedings at the Congress shall be taken by a minute-taker who must not be a member of the Board.

     The minutes must be submitted to all country-members of the I.C.S.C. and to the members of the Board not later than three months after the end of the Congress.

7. A quorum is established if at least one third of the affiliated members are present at the Congress.

     The Congress is presided over by the President or, in case he is unable to do do, by the Vice-President.

ARTICLE IV - The I.C.S.C. Board

1. Between Congresses the Board shall be responsible for the management of the I.C.S.C.

2. The Board is composed of

     a.    a President.

     b.    a Vice-President.

     c.    a Secretary-General / Treasurer.

     d.    two members.

3. At the Congress during the World Team Deaf Chess Championships, the Congress elects every four years:

     a.    President.

     b.    four representatives.

     If a member of the Board retires before expiration of his term, a by-election is to be held at the next Congress. The term of members of the Board so elected shall be terminated together with that of the whole Board.

4. The names of candidates for the Board of the I.C.S.C. may be submitted by any country-member and must reach the General-Secretary of the I.C.S.C. three months before the opening date of the Congress. A retiring member of the Board shall be eligible for re-election provided the country-member, to which he/she belongs, supports hus/her candidacy in writing.

5. The Board elects the Vice-President and the Secretary-General / Treasurer from among its members. These two and the President consitute the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C..

6. Deputies in case of absence:

     a.    the Vice-President for the President;

     b.    the President for the Secretary-General/Treasurer.

7. a.     The Board shall hold a series of meetings during the I.C.S.C. World event. The I.C.S.C. shall pay the costs of the travelling for the members of the Board whilst the organising country-member for the said World event shall pay the accommodation provided for the members of the Board.

     b.    The Executive Board shall hold a series of meetings during the I.C.S.C. Intercontinental Cup event. The I.C.S.C. shall pay the costs of the travelling for the members of the Board whilst the organising country-member for the said Intercontinental event shall pay the accommodation provided for the members of the Executive Board.

     c.    Work session of the Executive Board shall be held once a year when necessary for important preparations. Costs of travelling and accommodation shall be bome by the I.C.S.C. for members of the Executive Board during the work sessions.

8. At its session, the Board shall examine the general situation of the I.C.S.C., the activities of its committees, the Executive Board and the other organs; and the annual reports of the Executive Board and the Treasurer. It shall  take decisions in accordance with the provisions of the Statute and the Regulations and prepare all materials to be submitted to the Congress.

     The session of the Board is valid if at least three members are present.

     Decisions shall be taken by a majority of votes.

     Appeals can be made against decisions of the Board at the Congress.

9. The Executive Board

     a.    The Executive Board is in charge of current affairs. It prepares the agenda of the sessions and submit a bi-annual report to the Congress.

            The Executive Board announces the Congress six months before its beginning at the latest.

     b.    The Executive Board may be consulted in all matters of international protests or disputes and is authorised to settle them in accordance with the Statutes and the Regulations. The decisions of Executive Board shall be taken by a majority of votes.

     c.    Appeals against decisions of the Executive Board can be lodged with the Board.

10. Inspection Visits.

In the event of a country-members staging a forthcoming I.C.S.C. World tournament, an inspection visit by I.C.S.C. shall be carried out at least 14 months before the start of the tournament.

A member of the Board of I.C.S.C. will be appointed in terms of close proximity and economy to carry out the inspection visit.

ARTICLE V - Finances

1. The amounts of the annual subscription and the admission fee are fixed by the Congress.

2. The Treasurer accepts all ordinary and extraordinary payments and guarantees all expenditures.

3. The financial sources of the I.C.S.C. are: membership subscriptions, fee, and donations.

4. The Treasurer shall submit the balance to the Congress every two years. This balance shall be audited by three country-members to be selected in advance by the Congress.

     After hearing the reports of the auditors, the Congress shall decide on the approval of the balance.

5. The financial period of the I.C.S.C. shall be from 1^st January to 31^st December of each year. Balances shall be established on 31^st December of every year.

6. The duties of the Treasurer of the I.C.S.C. shall be: -

     a.    The financial management of the I.C.S.C.

     b.    The collection of the subscriptions and fees from country-members.

     c.    The preparation of the budget of the I.C.S.C. for 4 years.

     d.    Presentation of the bi-annual financial Report during the I.C.S.C. Congress.

7. The Treasurer of the I.C.S.C. shall be chosen by the Secretary-General of the I.C.S.C. and be approved by the Board of the I.C.S.C.

8. The basic currency of I.C.S.C. shall be in EURO as from 1^st January 2002 onwards.

ARTICLE VI - Concluding Clauses

1. The seat of the I.C.S.C. is at the place of residence of the Secretary-General/Treasurer.

2. The business year of the I.C.S.C. is from January 1^st to December 31^st.

3.  a.    The official Report, the minutes of the meetings, bulletins and all circulars shall be printed in English.

     b.    International Sign Language is the official language for communication at Congress and meetings.

4. The present Statutes and Regulations may be amended at the request of the Board or a member, such a motion having to be announced in the agenda of the Congress. Any such amendment requires a majority of two thirds of the votes cast by the delegates present.

5. All country-members will informed in the Information Bulletin about disqualifications imposed by Board of the I.C.S.C.

     Also, the country-members must inform their clubs about them.

6. The I.C.S.C. has a flag showing the I.C.S.C. emblem on a blue background.

     The I.C.S.C. emblem consists of the world globe which is partly overlapped by a tilted chessboard and which across them the initials of the I.C.S.C.

     It is forbidden to copy the symbols and initials of the I.C.S.C. without permission by the Board.

     Posters, medals, diploma, etc which bear the emblem of the I.C.S.C. must be approved by the Board before they are produced.

7. No discrimination is permitted toward country-members or a person on account of race, religion, politics or sex.

8. All cases not provided for by the present Statutes shall be decided upon, and settled, by the Board in the spirit of international chess etiquette.

9. The I.C.S.C. Statutes and Regulations shall be printed as a loose-leaf A5 and be updated after every I.C.S.C. Congress.

10. These Statutes will be entered into force by adoption by the XXVth Congress of the I.C.S.C. in July 2000.

REGULATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL DEAF CHESS EVENTS OF THE I.C.S.C.

ARTICLE I - Introduction

1. The following events are organised under the auspices of the I.C.S.C.:

     (a)   World Individual Deaf Chess Championships

     (b)   World Individual Ladies Deaf Chess Championships  

     (c)   World Individual Juniors Deaf Chess Championships  

     (d)   World Team Deaf Chess Championships

     (e)   World Team Ladies Deaf Chess Championships

     (f)   International Cup of the I.C.S.C. Championships

     (g)   other international competitions of the I.C.S.C.

     The I.C.S.C. promotes the spread of deaf chess among juniors and, if country-member organisations are interested, organises international chess tournaments. International tournaments for juniors can be held if there are at least three countries taking part.

2. The organisation of the events listed in ART. I. 1. is subject to approval by the I.C.S.C.

3. The tournament listes in ART. I. 1. (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) shall be held regulary every four years in the prescribed orders as follows:

     (i)    World Individual Deaf Chess Championships

            World Individual Ladies Deaf Chess Championships  

            World Individual Juniors Deaf Chess Championships  

     (ii)   International Cup of the I.C.S.C. Championships

     (iii)  World Team Deaf Chess Championships

            World Team Ladies Deaf Chess Championships

     (iv)   International Cup of the I.C.S.C. Championships

4. If tournaments such as described in ART. I. 1. (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) are to be valid a minimum participation of six players or six teams representing different country-members of the I.C.S.C. is necessary.

5. World championships may be held only in such countries where all players are permitted to enter, if they so desire, and where the equality of all player is guaranteed.

6. Every country-member of the I.C.S.C. is entitled to participate in the I.C.S.C. tournaments with one player or several players holding the nationality of the given country.

7. If the number of the players or teams prescribed in ART. I. 4. cannot be reached or if a violation of ART. I. 5. is observed, the Board of the I.C.S.C. shall take further necessary steps.

8. a)   The rules observed at these tournaments prescribed in ART. I. 1. are those set up by the F.I.D.E.

     b)  The official F.I.D.E. algebraic notation is to be used in all I.C.S.C. tournaments.

9. The start of the tournament is marked by the drawing of lots and the end by the distribution of prizes.

10. Tournaments organised under the auspices of I.C.S.C. are ratified as I.C.S.C. tournaments. The games of I.C.S.C. tournamenbts shall remain the property of I.C.S.C.

ARTICLE II - Participants

1. Only deaf players can take part in all I.C.S.C. events.

     In I.C.S.C. team events, team captains must be deaf.

     The participants must be members of their national association or club of the deaf.

2. Persons are considered deaf if they have a hearing loss of at least 55 dB in the better ear (3-tone frequency average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hertz ISO 1964 Standards).

3. Every participant must submit the I.C.S.C. an audiogram that is not more than one year old signed by a qualified audiologist. The form for this will be supplied by the I.C.S.C.

     Once the participant’s audiogram has been accepted by the I.C.S.C. it is likely that no further testing will he required depending upon the type of the hearing loss.

     If the audiogram has already been submitted for a previous I.C.S.C. event, it is not necessary to submit a new audiogram.

     If the audiogram for the participant is not submitted by the country-member before any I.C.S.C. event, a fine (to be determined by the Congress) will be imposed.

     This participant will be required to undergo audiometric testing and expenses shall be met by the said country-member.

4. If doubt arises as to the deafness of a participant the I.C.S.C. is entitled to submit that person to an ad hoc examination by a specialist and, if needs be, disqualify the person in question by deleting all the points scored by him and the country represented by him.

     That country must also meet all expenses for the medical examination.

     These expenses, however, must first be advanced by the complainant who shall forfeit their expenses, if the accusations is proved to be incorrect.

5. Participants are forbidden to wear hearing aids during competitions.

     If any participant is found provened to be wearing a hearing aid during the match, this participant will forfeit the game.

     The cochlear implants are considered equivalent to wearing hearing aids. The function must be switched off during the competion.

ARTICLE III - World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C.

1. (a)    The duration of the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships should not exceed 14 days including days of arrival and departure.

     (b)   There shall be two events, namely

            (i) World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships for men.

(ii) World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships for ladies.

     (c)   The events described in ART. III. 1. (b) shall be run at the same time and at the same location.  

2. Participants

     The following players amy participate in the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships: -

     (i)    the I.C.S.C. World Champion who won the first place at the previous championship or successfully defended the title at that tournament.

     (ii)   the best player of every I.C.S.C. country-member to be appointment by the said country-member

     (iii)  the I.C.S.C. Grandmasters

     (iv)  the second player from the country of the World Champion who is to be appointed by the country-member, even if the condition laid down in ART. III. 2. (ii) is not complied with.

     (v)   the second player of the host I.C.S.C. country-member but only if there is an odd number of participants.

     (vi)  By the words “player”, “participant”, both male and female competitors are meant.

            By the words “I.C.S.C. World Champion”, they also apply to both events described in ART. III. 1. (b) unless otherwise specified as in ART. III. 3. (g) (ii).  

3. Tournament Rules

     (a)   If the numbers of the participants are twelve or less than twelve, then the tournament will be played in 11 Rounds or less according to the number of participants and with participants meeting each other once.

     (b)   If the number of the participants is 14 (the host country to provide another player if there are 13 participants), the the 13 Rounds all-play-all system will be used.

            Before the drawing of numbers allocated to participants, a draw is made from the 13 Rounds so that the named two Rounds are deleted to make way for the 11 Rounds to be played.

            If two players are from the same country, then they are asked to draw their own number first. Their pairing may be deleted as to which Round they would play against each other and thus delete that Round. The procedure as described is followed up by drawing one more Round to be deleted.

     (c)   For 16 or more even numbered participants, the Swiss System for 11 Rounds is to be used and it is required that all participants be officially rated.

     (d)   In single games, a victory is counted as 1 point, a draw as 0,5, and a defeat as 0 point. The results of the single games are added up. The player who obtains the highest number of points is the winner of the tournament.

            The sum of the points obtained determines the ranking of participants.

     (e)   If participants gain the same number of points, the following factors, in the order given, shall decided about their ranking with the exception of the case described in ART. III. 3. (i).

For the all-play-all system

          (i)    the better result according to the Sonneborn-Berger system which determines the rank of a player by the sum of all points calculated as follows: a won game is scored on the basis of number of normal points reached by the opponent, a drawn game on the basis of half the number of normal points reached by the opponent

          (ii)   the mutual results of the players who have gained the same number of points

          (iii)  the better results over all other who have obtained more than 50% of the possible points

          (iv)  the drawing of lots.

For the Swiss system

the sum of progressive scores is the method to be used for tie-break decisions.

In this method the player’s total scores at the end of each round are added together. The higest total wins.

If still tied, the first score is taken away, and so on until one player is left with a highest total, and wins.

     (f) If none of the criteria listed in ART. III 3. (e) produces a decision, the first place is awarded to the winner of a new match by the contestants; and so on until one of the contestants wins the victory. This refers to deciding upon the victory, and in this case criterion (iv) of ART. III 3. (e) shall apply.

     (g)   (i)     The winner of the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships for men shall be awarded the title of     “I.C.S.C. World Champion”

(ii)     The winner of the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships for ladies shall be awarded the title of     “I.C.S.C. World Ladies Champion”.

     (h)   The title of “I.C.S.C. World Champion” is awarded by the I.C.S.C. only for the period prior to the next World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships.

The period may not, however, exceed eight year, if the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships is not held at the date provided for in the Regulations.

     (i)    If the I.C.S.C. World Champion who won, or successfully defended, his title at the previous World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships shares the first place, he retains his title even if he has the worse result in accordance with the conditions laid down in ART. III. 3. (e).

     (j)    Each player is obliged to play right through the tournament.

Each player is forced by circumstances beyond his control to withdraw from the tournament, the I.C.S.C. Board shall take the necessary steps.  

4. Detailed Tournament Rules

(a)   The F.I.D.E. Laws of Chess must be strictly observed.

(b)   Order of Play

    In the all-play-all system, as prescribed in ART. III.3 (a) and (b), the order of play is so regulated that the competitions are played according to the international tables of rounds (Berger-Schurig).

            In the Swiss system, as prescribed in ART. III.3 (c), the general pairing rules used in the Swiss system are applied.

            Before the pairings are made for the first round, the list of participants is prepared according to their ratings and the player are given pairing numbers (for example, the player with the highest rating is given number 1 which is the highest pairing number). The pairing numbers are then divided into two equal groups. The players in the top half are paired in consecutive order with those in the bottom half. The colour to be given to the player having the highest pairing number is decided by drawing lots. Then the odd-numbered players in the upper half of the pairing list have the same colour as the player having the highest pairing number and even-numbered players in the upper half of the pairing list are given the other colour.

Small changes may be made by the chief Arbiter in order to avoid pairing players from the same country-member.

(c)   The official F.I.D.E. rate of play is 60 moves in 3 hours, the first 40 moves in 2 hours and then 20 moves in 1 hour.

          If circumstances make it absolutely necessary, the chief Arbiter may make the necessary changes in the hours of play.

          However, if before the last round there remain some adjourned games, these games must be finished before the last round commences. If there are several adjourned games belonging to preceding rounds, termination must be arranged in the ascending order of rounds unless there are obstacles of a practical nature.

     Rates of play other than described above must first be approved by the I.C.S.C. Executive Board.

(d)   At the commencement of the game the clocks are to show 4 o’clock.

          As soon as the signal for the start of the game has been given the clock of the player who has the white pieces will be started by the player who has the black pieces.

          If the player who has the black pieces is not present, the Arbiter starts the clock of the one who has the white pieces.

          The game is lot by the player who arrives at the chess board more than an hour late, for the beginning of the game. The time of delay is counted from the start of the game.  

  (e) Adjournment of a game

       (i)    In case a game is not finished at the elapse of time presecribed for play, the player whose turn it is shall write down his next move in complete notation on his score sheet, put his score sheet along with that of his adversary into an envelope provided by the Arbiter, seal the envelope and then stop his clock. After this, he shall hand the envelope to his adversary who will act as prescribed in ART. III. 4. (e) (ii) below.

              If the player makes the said move on the board he must write it down on his score sheet nevertheless.

       (ii)   The adversary of the player who has sealed his move shall inscribe on the envelope

1. the name of the player and the country he represents

2. the position at the moment of adjournament of the game

3. the time used by each player

4. the name of the player who has sealed his move and the number of the said move.

5. offer of draw (using the symboly =), if it has been done before the adjournment of the game.

6. the date and time of the resumption of the game as advised by the arbiter.

Note: Written announcements by the arbiter should be on the notice board.

       (iii)   When the writing of the information indicated in paragraphs (i) and (ii) above has been finished, the envelope is to be handed to the Arbiter, who will examine the information inscribed, put his signature on the back of the envelope at the spot where it has been sealed, and be responsible for its safe keeping.  

  (f) Arbiters

In addition to the duties incumbent on the Arbiter according to ART. III. 4. (c), (d), (e) and (g), he is required to seed particularty that players observe chess etiquette and do not disturb either their adversaries (e.g. by repeated offers of a draw) or other players (e.g.by assembling round a chess board).  

  (g) Records

The chief Arbiter shall draw up for each round a record giving the results of all the games.

At the end of the tournament the chief Arbiter shall compile, on the basis of these records, a final record in a tabulated form containing all the results.

This final record must be signed by the chief Arbiter and countersigned by both the I.C.S.C. President and the Secretary-General immediately after the end of the tournament.

The organiser of the said tournament should send within two weeks to the office of I.C.S.C. a package which includes records of all games tables and the final official tournament table.  

  (h) Penalties

If a player fails to observe the Laws of Chess, the Regulations and the directives by the Arbiter, or fails to behave correctly inside the tournament building, the following penalties may be imposed:

     oral warning or written censure given by the chief Arbiter or the council of arbitration:

     loss of the game:

     provisional or definite disqualification of the offender by a decision of the council of arbitration.  

  (i) Assistans

The assistant of a player does not have the same rights as the player and is regarded, at tournaments, as having the same rights and duties as an ordinary spectator.  

5. Organisation

     (a)   The organising committee of the country-member of the I.C.S.C. entrusted with the organisation of the official world championship shall be responsible for the preparation of the games, including measures to maintain order, and for publications, announcement of the world championship, technical and financial matters, and the organisation itself. The accommodation of the guests must also be considered.

     (b)   Within fourteen months prior to be the beginning of the tournament the country- member entrusted with its organisation shall submit to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. complete information on the following points:

            (i)            place of the tournament;

            (ii)           dates of beginning and approximate end of the tournament;

            (iii)           material conditions for the participants;

            (iv)           itinerary, visa regulations, etc.

            (v)           costs of accommodation with half or full board.

The organising committee, together with the I.C.S.C., will send invitations to the country-members of the I.C.S.C. at least one year in advance, if possible.

The programme envisaged will be submitted to all country-members immediately after it is ready, but at least four weeks before the beginning of the tournament.

   (c)   At least six months before the beginning of the tournament in question, the country-members must give their definite decision concerning their participation of the tournament to the I.C.S.C.

Three months before the opening of the tournament every country-member must submit a list of the names of the competitors to the organising committee. This list must be typed in duplicate, the second copy to be conveyed to the I.C.S.C.

   (d)   A registration fee is to be remitted to the treasury of the I.C.S.C. together with the entry according to ART. III. 5. (c).

This fee to be fixed by the Congress is for each player taking part in the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships.

If the definite entry is not fulfilled there can be no claim to refunding this registration fee.

The entry of players in accordance with ART. III. 5. (c) shall be invalid as long as the registration fee has not been paid.

In case of withdrawals of registered individuals before the event and later payments, an additional fee shall be imposed as determined by the Congress.

   (e)   Each country-member must inform the organising committee of any changes in the list of the names of players entered fourteen days prior to the opening of the tournament.

     (f) (i)   To ensure strict observance of the provisions of the Regulations and the F.I.D.E. Laws of Chess, the organising committee must submit the name of the nominated chief Arbiter to the I.C.S.C. 5 months before the event.

            (ii)   The I.C.S.C. will only approve if the nominated Arbiter is amongst the current official list of the F.I.D.E. Arbiters.

            (iii)   The organising committee itself shall nominate one or two assistent arbiters, one of whom must be deaf and conversant in international sign language.

            (iv)  The assistant arbiters are only permitted by the chief Arbiter whenever necessary at certain times to act as arbiters.

       (g)  Protests against any decision by the chief Arbiter can be lodged with the council of arbitration.

The complainant must deposit the fee (to be fixed by the Congress) as security at the time the protest is lodged. This will be refunded if the decision is in his favour. If not, the I.C.S.C. of the tournament shall be the beneficiary.

The council of arbitration includes the following people:

(i)       the chief Arbiter

(ii)      one representative of the I.C.S.C. Board

(iii)     three members representing three participating country-members of the I.C.S.C. and elected by the players.

       (h)   No member of the council of arbitration shall have the right to vote when decisions are debated involving his own country-member. Not with standing this provision every member of the council of arbitration shall be entitled to take part in the discussion of any question submitted to the council.

       (i)    A decision by the council of arbitration shall come into force immediately: and it shall be final as regards the result of the tournament.

              The losing party may, however, bring the decision before the I.C.S.C. Congress, which shall then confine itself to declaring whether or not the decision was right, without this declaration affecting the result of the tournament.

       (j)    Each participant in the tournament must hold a membership card of his country-member of the I.C.S.C.

       (k)   Country-members which are unable to take part in the world championship must inform the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. and state the reasons preventing their participation.  

6.    Prizes

       (a)   The holders of the first three places at the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C. shall receive a medal and  a diploma each from the organiser. All other participants shall receive a souvenir letter each.

       (b)   In addition, the I.C.S.C. World Champion shall receive both a special document and a special trophy from the I.C.S.C.  

7. Finances

         (a) Travelling expenses and subsistence allowances at world championships will be born by the country-members of the players. All other costs will be born by the organiser.

       (b)   The costs of prizes, medals and documents according to ART. III. 6. (a) will be born by the organiser.

       (c)   The costs of the document and trophy for the I.C.S.C. World Champion according to ART. III. 6. (b) will be born by the I.C.S.C.

       (d)  Other prizes, briliancy prizes for best individual results of players, etc. depend on the voluntary initiativeness of the organising committee of the tournament.

ARTICLE IV - World Junior Individuals Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C.

1.        The I.C.S.C. World Junior Individuals Deaf Chess Championships shall be held once every four years at the same time as the I.C.S.C. World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships. 

2.      The duration of the said event shall not exceed 8 days including days of arrival and departure. 

3.      Participants.

a.  Juniors shall be under the age of 19 years.

b.  Official audiograms of Juniors shall be sent to the office of I.C.S.C.

c.       The identity-card of each Junior with photo shall be signed by the Director of the school and the national deaf chess association. 

4     For the said event to be valid, a minimum participation of six players of each gender representing different country-members of the I.C.S.C. is necessary. 

5.        Every country-member of the I.C.S.C. is entitled to participate in the said event with one player but no more than two for each gender holding the nationality of the given country. 

6.   a)   Boys play 9 Rounds in the tournament on the Swiss system.

b)  Girls play 7 Rounds in the tournament on the Swiss system.

c)  If the number of participants in 4 a) and 4 b) is less than 11, the tournament shall be based on the all-play-all system.

d)  The rate of play in both tournaments shall be 1 hour 30 minutes for the first 36 moves and then 30 minutes to finish off the game.

e)  The recording of the games is obligatory. The technical arbiter of the tournament shall check and if necessary, amend the recording of the game after its termination.

f)        The F.I.D.E. Laws of Chess must be strictly observed. 

7.    a) In single games, a victory is counted as 1 point, a draw as 0.5 and a defeat as 0 point. The results of  the single games are added up. The player who obtains the highest number of points is the winner of the tournament.

b) If participants gain the same number of points, the following factors, in the order  given, shall be decided about their ranking.

For the all-play-all system,

(i)    the better result according to the Sonnenborn-Berger system

(ii)       the mutual results of the players who have gained the same number of points. In the case of a draw, the player with the black pieces wins.

For the Swiss system,

The sum of progressive scores is the method to be used for tie-break decisions. In this method, the player's total scores at the end of each round are added together. The highest total wins.

If still tied, the first score is taken away, and so on until one player is left with the highest total, and wins.

8.       a)  The winner of the I.C.S.C. World Junior Individuals  Deaf Chess Championships for boys shall be awarded the title of "I.C.S.C. World Junior Champion."

b)  The winner of the I.C.S.C. World Junior  Individuals  Deaf  Chess  Championships  for girls shall be awarded the title of "I.C.S.C. World Junior Girls Champion."

Both winners are allowed to play in the next I.C.S.C. World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships.

9.    (a) The holders of the first three places at the I.C.S.C. World Junior Individuals Deaf Chess Championships shall receive a medal and a diploma and a gift each from the I.C.S.C.

          (b)In addition, the I.C.S.C. Junior World Champion shall  receive  a  special  trophy  from I.C.S.C.

10.     The first I.C.S.C. World Junior Individuals Deaf Chess Championships shall take place in 2004.

11.     These Regulations entered into force after adoption by the XXVIth Congress of the I.C.S.C. in July 2002.

ARTICLE V - World Teams Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C.

1. (a)    The duration of the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships should not exceed 14 days including days of arrival and departure.

     (b)   There shall be two events, namely

            (i) World Teams Deaf Chess Championships

(ii) World Ladies Teams Deaf Chess Championships

     (c)   The events described in ART. IV. 1. (b) shall be run at the same time and at the same location.

2. Participants

     (a)   At the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships, one team from every country-member of the I.C.S.C. is entitled to play in the tournament.

            This team is composed of four players and a reserve player, who shall be listed in a fixed board order (1 to 5) by the team captain at the beginning of the tournament.

            This board order may not be changed during the tournament.

     (b)   At the World Ladies Teams Deaf Chess Championships, one team from every country-member of the I.C.S.C. is entitled to play in the tournament.

            This team is composed of two lady-players and a reserve lady-player, who shall be listed in a fixed board order (1 to 3) by the team captain at the beginning of the tournament.

            This board order may not be changed during the tournament.

     (c)   The second team of the host I.C.S.C. country-member but only if there is an odd number of the teams participating in the tournament.

     (d)   By the words “player”, “participant”, both male and female competitors are meant.

            By the words “I.C.S.C. World Team Champion”, they also apply to both events described in ART. IV. 1. (b) unless otherwise specified as in ART. IV. 3. (g) (ii).

3. Tournament Rules

     (a)   The tournament shall be run on an all-play-all basis where each team shall play one match against every other team.

     (b)   If the number of the teams participating is 11 or more, then a 9 round Swiss System shall be used.

     (c)   (i) Each match between teams shall be played over 4 boards.

            (ii) Each match between ladies teams shall be played over 2 boards.

(d)     In single games, a victory is counted as 1 point, a draw as 0,5, and a defeat as 0 point. In the match, a victory for the team counts as 2 match points, a draw as 1 match point, and a loss as 0 match point.

Each team’s place in the order of ranking will be decided by the number of game points it has scored.

     (e)   If teams gain the same number of game points, the following factors, in the order, given, shall decide about their ranking with the exception of the case described in ART. IV. 3. (i).

            (i)   the better result in the team matches according to the won and drawn games

            (ii)  the mutual results of the teams who have gained the same number of points

            (iii) the better results at the first two boards in the tournament as a whole

            (iv) the best score with black in all matches starting with first board.

                     (f)    (i)     The winner of the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships shall be awarded the title of   

                                                             “I.C.S.C. World Team Champion”.

(ii)    The winner of the World Ladies Teams Deaf Chess Championships shall be awarded the title of 

                        “I.C.S.C. World Ladies Team Champion”.

     (g)   The title of “I.C.S.C. World Team Champion” is awarded by the I.C.S.C. only for the period prior to the next World Teams Deaf Chess Championships.

The period may not, however, exceed eight year, if the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships is not held at the date provided for in the Regulations.

     (h)   If the I.C.S.C. World Team Champion who won, or successfully defended, ist title at the previous World Teams Deaf Chess Championships shares the first place, it retains its title even if it has the worse result in accordance with the conditions laid down in ART. IV. 3. (e).

     (i)    Each team is obliged to play right through the tournament.

If a team is forced by circumstances beyond its control to withdraw from the tournament, the I.C.S.C. Board shall take the necessary steps.

4. Detailed Tournament Rules

(a)      The F.I.D.E. Laws of Chess must be strictly observed.

    (b)   Order of Play

     In the all-play-all system, as prescribed in ART. IV.3 (a) and (b), the order of play is so regulated that the competitions are played according to the international tables of rounds (Berger-Schurig).

     Small changes may be made by the chief Arbiter in order either to pair teams from the same country-member in the first round or to avoid pairing teams from the same country-member.

          In the team competitions the team whose number comes first has the white pieces on boards one and three.

   (c)   The official F.I.D.E. rate of play is 60 moves in 3 hours, the first 40 moves in 2 hours and then 20 moves in 1 hour.

          If circumstances make it absolutely necessary, the chief Arbiter may make the necessary changes in the hours of play. However, if before the last round there remain some adjourrned games, these games must be finished before the last round commences. If there are several adjourned games belonging to preceding rounds, termination must be arranged in the ascending order of rounds unless there are obstacles of a practical nature. Rates of play other than described above must first be approved by the I.C.S.C. Executive Board.

   (d)   At the commencement of the game the clocks are to show 4 o’clock.

          As soon as the signal for the start of the game has been given the clock of the player who has the white pieces will be started by the player who has the black pieces.

            If the player who has the black pieces is not present, the Arbiter starts the clock of the one who has the white pieces.

            The game is lot by the player who arrives at the chess board more than an hour late, for the beginning of the game. The time of delay is counted from the start of the game.

  (e) Adjournment of a game

       (i)  In case a game is not finished at the elapse of time presecribed for play, the player whose turn it is, shall, on the demand of the arbiter, write down his next move in complete notation on his score sheet, put his score sheet along with that of his adversary into an envelope provided by the Arbiter, seal the envelope and then stop his clock. After this, he shall hand the envelope to his adversary who will act as prescribed in ART. IV. 4. (e) (ii) below.

            If the player makes the said move on the board he must write it down on his score sheet nevertheless.

       (ii)   The adversary of the player who has sealed his move shall inscribe on the envelope

1. the name of the player and the country he represents

2. the position at the moment of adjournament of the game

3. the time used by each player

4. the name of the player who has sealed his move and the number of the said move.

5. offer of draw (using the symboly =), if it has been done before the adjournment of the game.

6. the date and time of the resumption of the game as advised by the arbiter.

Note: Written announcements by the arbiter should be on the notice board.

(iii)    When the writing of the information indicated in paragraphs (i) and (ii) above has been finished, the envelope is to be handed to the Arbiter, who will examine the information inscribed, put his signature on the back of the envelope at the spot where it has been sealed, and be responsible for its safe keeping.

(iv)    In case of unreadable writing on the score sheet, the player shall, with the team captain present, restore the unreadable writing on a new score sheet.  

  (f)Arbiters

In addition to the duties incumbent on the Arbiter according to ART. IV. 4. (c), (d), (e), (g) and (h), he is required to seed particularty that players observe chess etiquette and do not disturb either their adversaries (e.g. by repeated offers of a draw) or other players (e.g.by assembling round a chess board).

  (g) Team captains

     The rights and duties of the team captains are as follows:

(i)  Before the commencement of a round the team captain must submit to the Arbiter and the captain of the other team a list of the names of the payers taking part in that round.

If a player fails to appear at the board his adversary will get the points.

If a team is unable to participate in full strength, only the lower boards may be left out, and all players present must move up.

If a team is incomplete at the scheduled commencement of the match but is expecting more players to arrive, there are two possibilities:

       (a) The team waits for the missing players. In that case all clocks of that team will be started.

       (b) The team is confident that a player will appear and leaves his board out. If that player does not appear at all, all points from the left-out board onwards shall be lost.

(ii)  The captain is authorised, in his capacity as captain, to remain in the space reserved for the players, but it will be his duty to see that those of his team’s players who do not take part in that round or have finished their games do not remain in the said space.

     (iii) At the end of play, the captain shall be responsible for reporting the results to the Arbiter as well as providing the latter with score sheets on which all terminated games are legibly recorded.

   (iv) The captain must abstain from any intervention during play. He is, however, entitled to advise the players of his team to accept or make an offer of a draw, on condition that he does not make any comments concerning the present situation on the chess-board and confines himself to giving only a brief remark which can in no way be interpreted as an opinion about the possible end of the game.

Any communication between the captain and his players must be made under the control of the Arbiter or the captain of the other team.

   (v) The captain is entitled to nominate a deputy but is required to do so in a written information to the Arbiter.

   (vi) Only the captain is authorised to lodge protests or any claims on the part of the players.

   (vii) When duties as specified in items 4.(ii) and (iii) have been carried out by the team captain, then the team captain must leave the playing area.  

  (h) Records

The chief Arbiter shall draw up for each round a record giving the results of each match and each game.

At the end of the tournament the chief Arbiter shall compile, on the basis of these records, a final record in a tabulated form containing all the results.

This final record must be signed by the chief Arbiter and countersigned by both the I.C.S.C. President and the Secretary-General immediately after the end of the tournament.  

The organiser of the said tournament should send within two weeks to the office of I.C.S.C. a package which includes records of all games tables and the final official tournament table.  

  (i) Penalties

If a player fails to observe the Laws of Chess, the Regulations and the directives by the Arbiter, or fails to behave correctly inside the tournament building, the following penalties may be imposed:

     oral warning or written censure given by the chief Arbiter or the council of arbitration:

     loss of the game:

     provisional or definite disqualification of the offender by a decision of the council of arbitration.  

  (j) Assistans

The assistant of a player does not have the same rights as the captain of the team and is regarded, at tournaments, as having the same rights and duties as an ordinary spectator.

5. Organisation

     (a)   The organising committee of the country-member of the I.C.S.C. entrusted with the organisation of the official world championship shall be responsible for the preparation of the games, including measures to maintain order, and for publications, announcement of the world championship, technical and financial matters, and the organisation itself. The accommodation of the guests must also be considered.

     (b)   Within 14 months prior to be the beginning of the tournament the country- member entrusted with its organisation shall submit to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. complete information on the following points:

            (i)            place of the tournament;

            (ii)            dates of beginning and approximate end of the tournament;

            (iii)            material conditions for the participants;

            (iv)            itinerary, visa regulations, etc.

            (v)            costs of accommodation with half or full board.

The organising committee, together with the I.C.S.C., will send invitations to the country-members of the I.C.S.C. at least one year in advance, if possible.

The programme envisaged will be submitted to all country-members immediately after it is ready, but at least four weeks before the beginning of the tournament.

   (c)   At least six months before the beginning of the tournament in question, the country-members must give their definite decision concerning their participation of the tournament to the I.C.S.C.

Three months before the opening of the tournament every country-member must submit a list of the names of the competitors to the organising committee. This list must be typed in duplicate, the second copy to be conveyed to the I.C.S.C.

     (d)   A registration fee is to be remitted to the treasury of the I.C.S.C. together with the entry according to ART. IV. 5. (c). This fee to be fixed by the Congress is for each player taking part in the World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships.

If the definite entry is not fulfilled there can be no claim to refunding this registration fee.

The entry of players in accordance with ART. IV. 5. (c) shall be invalid as long as the registration fee has not been paid.

In case of withdrawals of registered teams before the event and later payments, an additional fee shall be imposed as determined by the Congress.

   (e)   Each country-member must inform the organising committee of any changes in the list of the names of players entered fourteen days prior to the opening of the tournament.

(f) (i)    To ensure strict observance of the provisions of the Regulations and the F.I.D.E. Laws of Chess, the organising committee must submit the name of the nominated chief Arbiter to the I.C.S.C. 5 months before the event.

       (ii)   The I.C.S.C. will only approve if the nominated Arbiter is amongst the current official list of the F.I.D.E. Arbiters.

       (iii)   The organising committee itself shall nominate one or two assistent arbiters, one of whom must be deaf and conversant in international sign language.

       (iv)  The assistant arbiters are only permitted by the chief Arbiter whenever necessary at certain times to act as arbiters.

       (g)   Protests against any decision by the chief Arbiter can be lodged with the council of arbitration. The complainant must deposit the fee (to be fixed by the Congress) as security at the time the protest is lodged. This will be refunded if the decision is in his favour. If not, the I.C.S.C. of the tournament shall be the beneficiary.

              The council of arbitration includes the following people:

              (i)      the chief Arbiter

              (ii)     one representative of the I.C.S.C. Board  

(iii)     three members representing three participating country-members of the I.C.S.C. and elected by the captain: these persons can be either team captain or players.

       (h)   No member of the council of arbitration shall have the right to vote when decisions are debated involving his own country-member. Not with standing this provision every member of the council of arbitration shall be entitled to take part in the discussion of any question submitted to the council.

       (i)    A decision by the council of arbitration shall come into force immediately: and it shall be final as regards the result of the tournament. The losing party may, however, bring the decision before the I.C.S.C. Congress, which shall then confine itself to declaring whether or not the decision was right, without this declaration affecting the result of the tournament.

       (j)    Each participant in the tournament must hold a membership card of his country-member of the I.C.S.C.

       (k)  Country-members which are unable to take part in the world championship must inform the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. and state the reasons preventing their participation.

6.    Prizes

       (a)   The holders of the first three places at the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C., namely the five players, each of the first three shall receive a medal and a diploma each from the organiser. All other participants shall receive a souvenir letter each.

       (b)   The holders of the first three places at the World Ladies Teams Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C., namely the three lady-players, each of the first three shall receive a medal and  a diploma each from the organiser. All other participants shall receive a souvenir letter each.

       (c)   In addition, the I.C.S.C. World Team Champion shall receive both a special document and a special trophy from the I.C.S.C.

       (d)   The I.C.S.C. document and trophy for the I.C.S.C. World Team Champion shall remain the property of their representative country-member.

7. Finances

       (a)  Travelling expenses and subsistence allowances at I.C.S.C. World Teams Deaf Chess Championships will be born by the country-members of the players. All other costs will be born by the organiser.

       (b)   The costs of prizes, medals and documents according to ART. IV. 6. (a) and (b) will be born by the organiser.

       (c)   The costs of the document and trophy for the I.C.S.C. World Team Champion according to ART. IV. 6. (c) will be born by the I.C.S.C.

       (d)   Other prizes, brillancy prizes for best individual results of players, etc. depend on the voluntary initiativeness of the organising committee of the tournament.

ARTICLE VI - The Intercontinental Cup of the I.C.S.C. Championships

1.  Between the years of the World Championships of the I.C.S.C., the I.C.S.C. stages competitions of national club-teams of the continent for the Intecontinental Cup of the I.C.S.C. Champiomships.

2.  The duration of the tournament shall not exceed four days and the maximum number of Round shall not exceed 7.

3.  Participation is open all national club-team champions of the continent. They must be affiliated to their country-members of the I.C.S.C.

     Should they prevented from participating, the club-team champions can transfer their right to participate to the second best team in their country-member of the I.C.S.C.

     All participants of the national club-team champion must be members of the same club which is to proved with a membership card which all participants have to carry with them.

4.  Each team match will be carried out on four boards.

     Te following method of playing is taken as a basis.

            (a)       All-play-all system for six participating teams

            (b)       Swiss-System for seven or more participating teams

            (c)       In the case of an odd number of participating teams, the host country-member is authorised to provide a second team.

            Both teams of the same country-member have to play have against each other in the first Round

            (d)       In the event of unforeseen circumstances, which prevents an even number of participating teams, 2,5 points shall be awarded to the participating team given a bye in each Round.

5. The drawing of lots takes place in the usual manner.

     The rules of the F.I.D.E. apply for the games.

6. The time prescribed for play is 2 hours fot the first 40 moves and then another 15 minutes for each player for the rest of the game.

7. The judging is based on the board point scored.

In the case of equal points, if the teams gain the same number of board points, the following factors shall decide about their ranking: -

     (i)   the better result in the team matches according to the won and drawn games

     (ii)  the mutual results of the teams who have gained the same number of points

     (iii) the better results at the first two boards in the tournament as a whole

     (iv) the best score with black in all matches starting with first board.

8. Place and time of the competition will be decided by the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. according to the submitted applications and confirmed by the I.C.S.C. Congress.

9. The invitations will be sent out by the organiser as far as possible a year in advance. A copy of the invitation will be sent to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C.

10.Country-members which for compelling reasons wish to withdraw their written acceptance to participate must inform the organiser at least 6 weeks before the beginning of the tournament. In case of failure to meet this time-limit, the country-member concerned may be charged by the organiser for additional expenses. The registration fee must also be paid in the case of the withdrawal of the acceptance to participate.

11.The organiser is responsible for all organisational preparations of the tournament including the invitation of a neutral arbiter.

12.(a) The arbiter shall draw up for each Round a record giving the results of each match and each game.

(a)      At the end of the tournaments the arbiter shall compile, on the basis of these records, a final record in a tabulated form containing all the results.

(b)      This final record must be signed by the arbiter and countersigned by both the I.C.S.C. President and the Secretary-General immediately after the end of the tournament.

(c)      The organiser of the said tournament should send within two weeks to the office of the I.C.S.C. a package which includes records of all games, tables and the final official tournament table.

13.All costs for travelling, accomodation and board are met the participating club of the country-member of the I.C.S.C.

14.The composition of the team is announced on arrival. One reserve player per team is allowed.

15.All controversies arising during the tournament are decided on the spot by the team captains with the right to appeal to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C.

16.Each club must pay to the I.C.S.C. Treasurer the registration fee to be fixed by the I.C.S.C. Congress.

17.The I.C.S.C. donates cup and diploma to the winner of the tournament. The organiser may provide additional prizes at own discretion.

ARTICLE VII - Other International Events

1.  Every international taking place between the country-members of the I.C.S.C. must be reported to the I.C.S.C. three months in advance.

2.  The country-member in which country such a meeting is held shall pay the I.C.S.C. a registration fee to be determined by the I.C.S.C. Congress.

3.  Such international country meetings are not permitted to take place during the three months before and after any I.C.S.C. event described in ART. I. a) b) c) d) takes place.

4.  Official international competitions can only be held between country-members of the I.C.S.C.

5.  The organising committee of the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships may organise the I.C.S.C. World Blitz Championships for both teams and individuals.

6.  The I.C.S.C. may stage an open chess event, namely the Goodwill Games, every two years. Entry is open to all players of the country-members of the I.C.S.C.

ARTICLE VIII - General Rules of Tournaments.

1.  No Smoking Regulations

     a)    No smoking is allowed in the playing room for the duration of the tournament.

     b)    The organising member-country will provide a separate area outside the playing room where smoking will be permitted. This area must be easily accessed to from the playing room.

     c)    The organising member-country should take steps to inform participants with a copy of the no-smoking regulations.

ARTICLE IX - Concluding Clauses

1.  These Regulations can be only amended in accordance with the provisions of the Statutes.

     If the solution of questions not provided for in these Regulations seems to be urgent, such solution shall be affected by the I.C.S.C. or, between Congresses, the I.C.S.C. Executive Board.

2.  These Regulations entered into force after adoption by the XXVth Congress of the I.C.S.C. in July 2000.  

REGULATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL TITLES OF THE I.C.S.C.

ARTICLE I - Introduction

1.  The I.C.S.C. shall recognise only international titles won in accordance with the appropriate provisions of the I.C.S.C. or awarded by the F.I.D.E.

2.  The I.C.S.C. shall give preference to its own world championships in determining the basis for awarding titles.

3.  The purpose of the present Regulations is to prevent titles awarded by the I.C.S.C. from being devaluated through too frequent awarding.

4.  The titles earlier awarded by the I.C.S.C. shall not be affected by the present Regulations.

ARTICLE II - General Regulations

1.  The I.C.S.C. shall award the following titles:

     a) For teams (regarded as a whole);

       (i)  For the World Teams Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C.,

                               “I.C.S.C. World Team Champion”

     (ii)   For the World Ladies Teams Deaf Chess Championships of the I.C.S.C.,

                               “I.C.S.C. World Ladies Team Champion”

     b) For outstanding chess players:

            (i)       “I.C.S.C. World Champion” for Men

            (ii)       “I.C.S.C. World Ladies Champion” for Ladies

            (iii)       “I.C.S.C. International Grandmaster”

            (iv)       “I.C.S.C. International Master”

     c) For arbiters:

            “International Arbiter of the I.C.S.C.”

2.  The titles described in ART. II. 1. (b), (iii), (iv) and 1. (c) shall be awarded for life and only on the basis of results of international tournaments, they are irrevocable.

3.  The following events shall be regarded as international tournaments:

     a) the world individuals championship

     b) the world teams championship.

4.  Titles will be awarded:

     a) automatically;

     b) after evaluating the results achieved.

5.  Fulfilment of the conditions for the awarding of the titles shall be confirmed by the Board of the I.C.S.C. and in the case described in ART. II. 4. (b), submitted by it to the Board of the I.C.S.C.

     These titles shall be solemnly announced at the Congress.

ARTICLE III - Conditions to be fulfilled

1.  With reagrd to winning the title of World Champion reference is made to the Regulations for the international deaf chess events of the I.C.S.C.

2.  A World Champion shall automatically become a Grand Master.

3.  A Grand Master must fulfil one of the following conditions:

     a) second place at the world individual championship;

     b) third places at two successive world individual championships;

     c) the best result at the first board at the world team championship.

4.  A Master must fulfil one of the following conditions:

     a) third place at the world individual championship;

     b) the best result at the first or second board at the world team championship.

5.  The minimum number of actually played games necessary to make fulfilment of the conditions valid shall be seven/ or ten, in case of double rounds/ at tournaments such as described in ART. III. 3. a) to c) and 4. a): or five tournaments such as described in ART. III. 4. b). It is assumed in all cases that the player finished the tournament according to the rules. A minimum number of seven participants is necessary to make the conditions described in ART. III. 3. b) and 4. a) valid.

6. The titles described in ART. III. 2. and 3. a) shall be awarded automatically. All other titles require evaluation.

7.  In extraordinary cases, where the application of the present Regulations would mean a special advantage to, or hardship on, the player in question, the Board of the I.C.S.C. can refrain from awarding the title or award it as an exception, on condition that the strength of the player in question has been rendered clear beyond doubt at other tournaments or through other significant results. Correspondence chess results can in no circumstances be considered.

8.  The Board of the I.C.S.C. shall decide unanimously in such cases irrespective of abstentions and of the vote of the representative of the country-member to which the player in question belongs. The decision of the Board shall be submitted to the Congress for confirmation.

9.    a)    The title of International Arbiter of the I.C.S.C. which concerns tournaments and matches of practical play, can only be awarded to such persons who have displayed a profound know ledgeof the Laws of Chess and other regulations prescribed by the I.C.S.C. and, at the same time, absolute objectivity in their repeated activities as directors or arbiters at competitions held under the auspices of the I.C.S.C. or at other important chess events. Knowledge of one or two world languages (German, English, French, Italian, Russian and Spanish) is desirable.

       b)    A deaf applicant can be an International Arbiter of the I.C.S.C. if he/she has the following:-

              a) Thorough knowledge of the Laws of Chess and F.I.D.E. Regulations for chess events,

              b) Knowledge of the I.C.S.C. Statutes and regulations,

              c) Knowledge of and ability to use the International Sign Language as well as any one of the F.I.D.E. languages,

              d) Experience as assistant in at least two I.C.S.C. events, and

              e) Absolute objectivity shown at all times during activity as an Arbiter.

              c) The applicant can only be recognised by the I.C.S.C. Congress.

ARTICLE IV - F.I.D.E. International Master Awards.

1.  The F.I.D.E. status of “International Master” is awarded to the first place in the I.C.S.C. World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships on application to the F.I.D.E. by the country-member of which the first placed participant is represantative.

     The application must be supported by the certified I.C.S.C. Tournament result table including the chief Arbiter’s signature.

     Copies of the standard application from are obtainable from the I.C.S.C. Secretary-General

     The fee for this title shall be paid by the said country-member.

2.  In the event of a tie for the first place, each of the tied players shall be awarded the F.I.D.E. title of “International Master”, subject to a maximum of three players.

3.  The F.I.D.E. status of “International Master” is awarded of the first place in the I.C.S.C. World Ladies Deaf Chess Championships on application to the F.I.D.E. by the country-member of which the first placed lady-participant is representative.

     Simuar procedures for application and fee are followed as described in ART. IV. 1.

     In the event for a tie for the first place, the clause described in ART. IV 2. is applicable.

4.  If the participant has the title of the F.I.D.E. International Master, then he is automatically awarded the title of the I.C.S.C. International Master after his participation in the I.C.S.C. World Individuals Deaf Chess Championships.

ARTICLE V - Concluding Clauses

1.  These Regulations can be only amended in accordance with the provisions of the Statutes.

2.  These Regulations entered into force after adoption by the XXIV Congress of the I.C.S.C. in August 1998.

REGULATIONS FOR AWARDING MEDALS OF THE I.C.S.C.

1.  Provision is made for the award of a diploma of honour together with a medal in recognition of special services in promoting and developing the I.C.S.C.

2.  The medals are awarded in gold, silver and bronze.

3.  On the occasion of each festive event of the I.C.S.C. event the Board of the I.C.S.C. can, if appropriate, give awards.

4.  Delegates of the country-members with at least 8 years active participation in the I.C.S.C. will be entitled to the I.C.S.C. diploma of honour with a bronze medal; those with at least 15 years will receive a silver medal and those with at least 25 years will be given a gold medal.

5.  The Board of the I.C.S.C. is the only authoritative body to whose members the diploma of honour with the medal is awarded according to the nature of their services. The award can, however, only take place after honourable retirement from the Board.

6.  By way of exception, the diploma of honour with the medal can be awarded to leading figures who are connected with deaf chess and who, through their high position, influence and their sympathy, have contributed to the organisation financing of the International Deaf Chess Championships in agreement with the Board of the I.C.S.C.

7.  The Regulations can only be changed in accordance with the provisions laid down in the Statutes.

8.  These Regulations have entered into force after having been approved by the XXII Congress of the I.C.S.C. in August 1994.

REGULATION FOR “SOCIETY OF FRIENDS OF I.C.S.C.”

1.  The “Society of Friends of I.C.S.C.” (thereafter called the Society) was founded in 1990 and approved by the I.C.S.C. Congress in 1992.

2.  The Society has set itself the goal of establishing a fund in order to assist and help with all measures concerning further promotion of the chess game amongst the deaf.

3.  The objectives of the Society are: -

a) to encourage countries of the Third World to participate in I.C.S.C. events and to assist them with financial subsidies.

b) to promote the ladies’ chess within the I.C.S.C.

c) to provide assistance and promotion of chess events and efforts made by young deaf chess players.

4.  The membership of the Society is open to individual persons as well as to corporate bodies.

Entry into the Society is declared to the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. and will become valid after payment of the first annual subscription.

The Executive Board will inform the member in writing about the accepted entry into the Society.

Members of the Society will receive I.C.S.C. bulletins three times a year and are allowed access to the chess events of the I.C.S.C.

The membership will be terminated after two years of non-payment of the subscription.

5.  The minimum annual subscription is fixed by the I.C.S.C. Congress. The member may voluntarily increase the subscription fee.

6.  Any legacies and donations may be added to the funds of the Society via the address of the I.C.S.C. General Secretary.

7.  Assistance to objectives listed under 3 a), b) and c) may be granted if the funds contain a minium basic sum of 5000 Dutch guilders.

The subsidy comprises financial assistance for chess materials or chess seminars for the named group of people and the free distribution of I.C.S.C. bulletins over a certain period. For the purpose of carrying out chess tournaments of country-members or their clubs under the auspices of the I.C.S.C., which are organised for the named group of people, organisation costs (exluding travelling and accommodation costs) can be subsided.

8.  Applications for financial subsidies can only be submitted by country-members of the I.C.S.C. They are to be sent to the General Secretary of the I.C.S.C.

9.  The award of resources from the funds of the Society will be decided by a committee to be proposed by the Executive Board of the I.C.S.C. and must be approved by the Congress.

The committee will comprise of three persons, namely, the Secretary-General of the I.C.S.C., the honorary member of the I.C.S.C. and the representative of the country member. A cost-saving composition of the committee should be ensured.

10.This regulation can only be changed in accordance with the provisos stipulated in the Statutes.

11.This Regulation became valid after being accepted by the XXIII I.C.S.C. Congress in 1996.

REGULATIONS OF THE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE OF  I.C.S.C.

1.          The Technical Committee of I.C.S.C. (thereafter called TC) is a permanent committee consisting of a Chairman, a member of the Board and at least two delegates who have the necessary expertise in matters relating to the Laws of Chess and Regulations of F.I.D.E.

2.          The TC seeks ways to improve the standards of chess-playing and arbiters of I.C.S.C. amongst Deaf and to up-date the regulations of the games of I.C.S.C. following the changes or amendments of the regulations of F.I.D.E.

3.          The delegates and the Board member should be appointed in terms of close proximity and economy to carry out the tasks of the TC. They may be selected during the Congress of ICSC.

4.      The objectives of the TC shall be:-

a)   To seek ways to help Deaf people interested in the refereeing of ICSC events by means of training and providing hands-on experience

b)   To help to prepare the arbiter-trainee to become a qualified ICSC Arbiter.

c)   To compile a list of qualified ICSC Deaf Arbiters.

d)   To follow changes and additions by the FIDE. To recommend changes and additions to up-date Regulations on Games of ICSC

e)   To draw up draft regulations on new events based on quick chess, lightning chess and junior chess.

f)    To consider ways to improve the playing standards amongst ICSC players

g)   To consider arranging the participation of ICSC players or teams in FIDE tournaments.

h)   To consider and make recommendations for the new rating system for non-rated ICSC chess players

i)    To consider and make recommendations for the improved rating system for rated ICSC chess players who are not registered by FIDE and also for the rated ICSC-FIDE chess players.

j)         To consider and make recommendations for junior chess players for titles and rating purposes.

5.      The meetings of the TC may be held during any ICSC event.

6.      The minutes of the TC must be sent to the Office of I.C.S.C. not later than two months after the date of the meeting held.

7.      Proposals and recommendations by the TC should be sent to the Office of I.C.S.C. at least one year before the Congress.

8.      The Executive Board of I.C.S.C. should include the TC's proposals and recommendations as       items for the agenda of its meeting at least ten months before the Congress.

9.      The Executive Board of I.C.S.C. should reply to the TC regarding its views not later than two months after the date of its meeting.

10.    Only after the approval given by the Executive Board of I.C.S.C. can the proposals and recommendations be circulated to all country-members at least eight months before the Congress.

11.       The TC should be responsible for presenting its report to the Congress and to give explanations for their proposals and recommendations.

12.    To become legally effective, proposals and recommendations put forward by the TC require the approval of the Congress of ICSC.

13.    The administrative costs may be claimed by the TC and the claim-form should be filled in and sent to the Office of I.C.S.C.

14. The Regulations of the TC entered into force after adoption by the XXVth Congress of the I.C.S.C. in July 2000.

Subscriptions and fees from 01.01.2007 to 31.12.2008.

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF SILENT CHESS

  General-Secretary: Mr. Phillip K. Gardner 

 13 Broadwater Dale, 

Letchworth Garden City, 

Hertforshire, SG6 3HQ (England)

Swiss Tournament Pairing Card Report

Event name: _______________________________________  Date of Start: ___________

City ________________________  Country _____________  Date of Finish ___________

Player ______________________________  Rating FIDE _________ICSC __________

Rate of Play ___________  moves in __________hours.

                  Then ________  moves in __________hour.

Certified as a correct report.

Signature of Chief Arbiter______________________  Date ____________

Endorsement

Signature of Organiser /I.C.S.C. Delegate ___________________________

Country ___________________________________

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF SILENT CHESS

  General-Secretary: Mr. Phillip K. Gardner 

 13 Broadwater Dale, 

Letchworth Garden City, 

Hertforshire, SG6 3HQ (England)

Tournament Report

Event name: _____________________________________  Date of Start: ___________

City ________________________  Country ___________  Date of Finish ___________

Player                                                   Cross Table

Rate of Play ___________  moves in __________hours.

            Then ___________  moves in __________hour.

Certified as a correct report.

Signature of Chief Arbiter__________________________  Date _________

Endorsement

Signature of Organiser /I.C.S.C. Delegate ___________________________

Country ___________________________________

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF SILENT CHESS

  General-Secretary: Mr. Phillip K. Gardner 

 13 Broadwater Dale, 

Letchworth Garden City, 

Hertforshire, SG6 3HQ (England)

REPORT FORM FOR THE REGISTRATION OF INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS

Country: ..................................................................................................................................

National Association: ...............................................................................................................

Organiser: ................................................................................................................................

Tournament name: ...................................................................................................................

City: .........................................................

Start date: ................................................                        End date: ................................................

No. Of Participants ..................................              No. Of Rounds .......................................

Rate of play: .........................  moves in .................. hours.

        Then .................  moves in .................. hour

System used:      SWISS SYSTEM  ¨ ALL-PLAY-ALL SYSTEM ¨

TEAMS  ¨  INDIVIDUALS ¨ INTERNATIONAL MATCH ¨

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS  ¨

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INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF SILENT CHESS

Society the Friends of I.C.S.C.

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The amount of the membership fee lasts for one year and will be renewed at the beginning of the new year.

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