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The United Nations has highlighted sport as a universal language bridging cultures, advancing global goals for peace, inclusion and sustainable development across diverse societies worldwide.
UN spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, spoke on Monday at a press briefing in New York, marking the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.
He said the 2026 theme, ‘Sport: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers’, reflects sport’s power to foster unity, understanding and meaningful connection in an increasingly fragmented world.
April 6 was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as International Day of Sport for Development and Peace to promote its far-reaching global impact.
Dujarric noted that the observance reflects growing international recognition of sport’s role in advancing human rights and supporting inclusive social and economic progress.
He stressed that sport remains a cost-effective and accessible tool for development, capable of reaching marginalised communities and inspiring positive behavioural change, particularly among young people.
As the 2026 World Cup final approaches at MetLife Stadium, athletes and officials reiterated sport’s transformative influence on global unity and cooperation.
He said: “Elite footballers will dominate headlines, but sport connects communities, fosters dialogue and builds mutual respect across generations, cultures and national boundaries.”
The tournament, running from June 11 to July 19, will feature 48 teams competing in 104 matches across Mexico, Canada and the United States.
Billions are expected to follow the competition, which opens in Mexico City, reinforcing football’s unmatched ability to unite audiences globally.
Officials said the expanded format reflects the sport’s growing inclusivity, offering more nations the opportunity to participate on football’s biggest international stage.
A community initiative, Play Collective, will support grassroots organisations, providing safe sporting spaces and structured programmes for underserved youth across host regions.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the programme is backed by Adidas Foundation, Beyond Sport Foundation and Common Goal.
The initiative aims to empower young people through sport, equipping them with life skills, mentorship opportunities and access to supportive community networks.
Mary Connor, Executive Director, Common Goals, said sport mirrored global cooperation, noting: “We come together across differences and make space to find a way forward.”
She added: “Sport teaches teamwork and trust, values that are essential in addressing global challenges and strengthening cooperation across divided communities.
She spoke at an event marking the day, which emphasised sport’s role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and uniting communities globally.
Participants at the event highlighted sport’s ability to tackle inequality, promote gender inclusion and provide platforms for education, health awareness and peacebuilding initiatives.
Looking ahead, the United States will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, further spotlighting sport’s enduring global significance and influence.
Olympian Nawal El Moutawakel recalled her 1984 triumph as a turning point for women in sport across Africa and the Arab world.
Her victory challenged long-standing stereotypes, inspiring a new generation of female athletes to pursue sporting excellence in spite of cultural and societal barriers.
She said: “My race had hurdles, like life. They taught discipline, determination and passion. I failed sometimes, but I never gave up.”
El Moutawakel said resilience learned through sport equipped individuals to overcome adversity and pursue success both on and off the field of competition.
She noted progress in gender equality, citing the leadership of Kirsty Coventry and increased female representation across international sport governance structures.
She said the rise of women in leadership positions signals a positive shift towards inclusivity and equal opportunity within global sporting institutions.
Young athletes, including Ailyn Lopez, shared how sport helped them overcome personal struggles and build purposeful, confident lives.
Lopez said football helped her navigate mental health challenges, giving her a sense of belonging, direction and the confidence to support others facing similar difficulties.
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