FIP: Promoting Global Philately and Stamp Collecting
Founded in 1926, the FIP (Fédération Internationale de Philatélie) began when a small group of European federations united to establish a worldwide organization. Its primary mission is to promote philately—the study and collection of postage stamps and related postal materials—across the globe.
The organization focuses its efforts on expanding the hobby in developing countries and across Asia, while simultaneously working to revitalize interest in industrialized nations where the practice has seen stagnation.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1926 by European federations.
- Core Mission: Promotion of philately and stamp collecting worldwide.
- Global Reach: Active in Asia, developing nations, and industrialized countries.
- Annual Events: Hosts the FIP Congress and provides patronage to major exhibitions.
- Competitive Events: Organizes the World Stamp Competition.
Organizational Role and Global Coordination
The FIP serves as a central hub, coordinating contact and collaboration between various philatelic organizations in different countries. This network ensures that the standards and passion for stamp collecting are shared across borders.
A significant part of the FIP's annual calendar involves providing patronage to several major stamp exhibitions. During one of these endorsed international exhibitions, the organization holds its annual FIP Congress.
Competitions and International Exhibitions
To foster engagement and excellence, the FIP introduced the "World Stamp Competition." The inaugural event took place in Singapore in 2004, followed by a second competition held in Tel Aviv in 2008. These competitions are structured around national teams and are evaluated by professional philatelic jurors.
In addition to competitions, the FIP selects key cities for stamp exhibitions. For example, in 2008, the organization selected Tel Aviv, Paris, Bucharest, Prague, and Vienna to host these events.
| Year | Event/Activity | Location(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 1926 | Foundation of FIP | Europe |
| 2004 | 1st World Stamp Competition | Singapore |
| 2008 | 2nd World Stamp Competition | Tel Aviv |
| 2008 | Selected Stamp Exhibitions | Tel Aviv, Paris, Bucharest, Prague, Vienna |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the FIP founded?
The FIP was founded in 1926 by a small number of European federations.
What is the primary goal of the FIP?
The FIP aims to promote stamp collecting and philately globally, specifically targeting developing countries, Asia, and industrialized nations where the hobby may be stagnating.
What is the World Stamp Competition?
It is a competition run by the FIP involving national teams and philatelic jurors, with the first event held in Singapore in 2004 and the second in Tel Aviv in 2008.
How does the FIP support stamp exhibitions?
The FIP provides patronage to several major stamp exhibitions every year and holds its annual FIP Congress during one of these endorsed events.
Which cities hosted FIP exhibitions in 2008?
In 2008, the FIP selected Tel Aviv, Paris, Bucharest, Prague, and Vienna for stamp exhibitions.