I hereby issue this official censure against the International Correspondence Chess Federation (ICCF). My censure is based on the following grounds:
- Encouragement of Quick Draws: The majority of ICCF games result in quick draws (30 moves in 30 days) which undermines the depth and strategic complexity that are the hallmarks of high-level chess play.
- Automation of Draws: The automation of draw decisions in ICCF play detracts from the critical element of gamesmanship inherent in time management during a chess match, particularly considering the absence of a ’50-move rule’ in traditional correspondence chess.
- Exclusion of Russian Players: The apparent shunning of Russian players, who are among the strongest in the world, has significantly diminished the competitive integrity and global representation in ICCF events.
- Alteration of Correspondence Chess Rules: Changes in the Rules of Correspondence Chess to suit current online play systems have led to a dilution of the traditional and strategic essence of correspondence chess.
- Limited International Inclusion: The ICCF has failed to fully incorporate the international chess community, resulting in what effectively functions as a Regional European Correspondence Chess Federation rather than a truly global body.
- Mirroring United Nations‘ Failures: The ICCF’s structure and operations, reflecting Conway’s Law, have mirrored the failures of the United Nations in achieving truly effective and inclusive global governance.
In light of these concerns, I strongly recommends chess players and enthusiasts to avoid participation in ICCF events until these significant issues are addressed and remedied.
Furthermore, I advise the use of a strikethrough in the ICCF acronym (ICCF) in all official communications.
I hope that this censure serves as a call to action for the ICCF to reassess and realign its policies and practices with the true spirit of global, strategic, and inclusive chess play.
