UNESCO roundtable unites leaders in sport and government to combat gender-based violence, emphasize survivor voices, advocate for data-driven policies, and promote inclusive narratives for a safer and more equitable sports culture worldwide.

Solange Memadji, displaced by conflict in Chad, finds solace and community in Baltram, where integration initiatives empower displaced individuals to rebuild their lives and foster unity within their host community.

Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (6 April), presents an opportunity to recognize the positive role sport and physical activity play in communities and people’s lives across the globe. The global theme for 2024 is “Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies”. The UN has long recognized the power and universality of sport and has used it to unite individuals and groups through the promotion of sports for development.

Didier Drogba cautions young African footballers on the perils of exploitation and human trafficking as part of a campaign by the International Labour Organization, FIFPRO, and the Didier Drogba Foundation, aiming to raise awareness and protect aspiring players.

Mary Harvey, Chief Executive of the Centre for Sports and Human Rights, highlights the intrinsic connection between sports and human rights values when sport is healthy and vibrant. With her extensive background as a former athlete on the USA women’s football team and her involvement in bringing the FIFA World Cup to North America in 2026, Harvey brings a unique perspective to the discussion.

“If we are trying to make human rights something that is more every day, sport provides that, that connection to people in an everyday way,” she said.

In an episode of the UN Human Rights Podcast, Harvey delves into the significance of sports in making human rights more accessible to people on a daily basis.

She emphasizes the power of sports as a platform for educating individuals about human rights in a relatable and everyday manner.

“It is a wonderful way to educate people about human rights and that makes it very relevant for everyone.” she concludes.

Photo: © Getty

For the inaugural celebration of World Basketball Day on 21 December 2023, the global impact of basketball takes centre stage. Like other sports, basketball transcends borders, cultures, and languages. It serves as a unifying force through which people from different backgrounds can come together, bond and communicate with each other, creating connections and breaking down barriers, and thereby contributing to peace. Together, let us champion the transformative power of sports in shaping a more harmonious and interconnected global community. Happy World Basketball Day!

Exiled Afghan women’s football teams scores goals in Australia in hopes of making a future in their new country, facilitated by UNHCR.

UN Women is partnering with FIFA on two calls to action: the first to “Unite for Gender Equality” and the second to “Unite for Ending Violence against Women, critical for a peaceful and sustainable world.

Chess is one of the most ancient, intellectual and cultural games, with a combination of sport, scientific thinking and elements of art. Chess also offers important opportunities for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, including strengthening education, realizing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls and fostering inclusion, tolerance, mutual understanding and respect. On World Chess Day (20 July), let’s celebrate chess for sustainable development!

Physical activity is associated with improved mental health and improved quality of life and well-being. A routine practice of yoga – a 5000-year-old tradition – is a valuable tool for people of all ages to make physical activity an integral part of life and reach the level needed to promote good health. The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga, which is not just an exercise - it unites body and mind, humanity and nature, and millions of people across the globe, for whom it is a source of strength, harmony, and peace.

The bicycle is an instrument of sustainable transportation, conveying a positive message to foster sustainable consumption and production and has a positive impact on climate. It contributes to cleaner air and less congestion. It also makes education, health care and other social services more accessible to the most vulnerable populations. This World Bicycle Day ride a bike for your health and the health of our planet!

UNHCR gives young Venezuelans a second chance at their baseball dreams of one day going professional through providing uniforms, equipment and other needed support. 

Future Olympic events are poised to drive sustainability in sport and fight climate change, led by a set of game-changing measures adopted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and supported by the UN. Speaking to UN News ahead of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, observed on 6 April, IOC’s Legacy Director, Tania Braga, explains how the 2024 Paris Games will be the first time that new sustainability guidelines will be fully implemented, aligning sport with development and climate action. Eileen Travers asked Ms. Braga how compatible the Olympics are with sustainable development.

Sport can play a key role in bringing people together while promoting solidarity and respect for all. In recognition of the positive influence that sport can also have on the advancement of human rights, and sustainable development, the United Nations celebrates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace on 6 April. A number of Davos-style conversations, highlighting the power of football and other sports in advancing the SDGs and human rights will take place at UN Headquarters in New York. Watch the virtual event live on UN Web TV and on the UN's YouTube channel.

On the eve of the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup, WHO teams up with Didier Drogba and other international football icons to urge action by governments and people across the world to achieve health for all.