The Kosovo national karate team was prevented from participating in the European Karate Championships in Cyprus due to host country restrictions, despite being a full member of the World Karate Federation (106). This incident, alongside the barring of English athletes, has drawn criticism of the World Karate Federation and the European Karate Federation for failing to protect athletes' rights and uphold Olympic principles. The Sports Above Politics Movement has accused the European Karate Federation of negligence and discrimination, highlighting the importance of ensuring athletes can compete without political interference or restrictive conditions. The situation underscores ongoing political complexities surrounding Kosovo's recognition and raises questions about the suitability of host countries with political reservations towards participating nations.

Global Athlete has urged the World Karate Federation (WKF), UK Sport, and the IOC Athletes’ Commission to intervene in a governance crisis affecting British karate athletes. The organization raised concerns about transparency, athlete treatment, and a dispute leading to the exclusion of athletes and the formation of a new federation (ENKGB). The situation stems from financial account issues and a vote of no confidence against the British Karate Federation (BKF) president, Roger Williams, and a lack of transparency regarding funding and donations. UK Sport allocated significant funding to British karate athletes, with a portion going directly to the BKF.

The World Karate Federation (WKF) is facing increasing scrutiny over its governance structure, characterized by centralization, lack of transparency, and questionable recognition processes for national federations. Critics allege the WKF prioritizes personal authority over democratic principles and financial accountability, leading to disputes and upheaval in national karate organizations across multiple countries, including the UK, Philippines, Russia, and Poland. These issues threaten the sport's credibility and potential for broader Olympic integration.