European Archery Federation

### History

The European Archery Federation, formerly known as the European and Mediterranean Archery Union (EMAU), is a continental federation managing archery in Europe recognized by the World Archery Federation. Its main objective is to promote and encourage archery throughout Europe and the Mediterranean basin.

The European and Mediterranean Archery Union was founded on 17 April 1988 in Paris, France, under the leadership of François de Massary, President of the French Archery Federation. The establishment of the federation was approved at a meeting composed of delegates from 19 European National Archery Federations:

* Belgium
* Cyprus
* Czechoslovakia (now dissolved)
* Denmark
* France
* Germany
* Greece
* Israel
* Italy
* Luxembourg
* Monaco
* Norway
* Poland
* Portugal
* Switzerland
* The Netherlands
* Turkey
* Yugoslavia (now dissolved)

The aim of the federation is to promote archery activity and create archery championships in Europe.

### Evolution

Over time, the federation has undergone changes. At its second Congress held in 1989 in Lausanne, Switzerland, the Federation Internationale de Tir à l'Arc (FITA) was established, and the number of member countries increased to 29.

The last Congress was held on 12 March 2008 in Vittel, France, with 38 member countries. The federation has since changed its name to World Archery Europe (WAE).

### Anthem

The anthem of the European Archery Federation was written by Henoel Grech, the composer of the hymn for the opening ceremony of the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin. It was first played on the occasion of the last Congress held in Vittel in 2008.

Note: The name change from EMAU to World Archery Europe (WAE) is mentioned in both sources, but only Source 2 provides a date for this change. However, since the date is not specified in Source 1, it has been omitted from the merged article.