How sport for development organisations will be part of the efforts structured around the SDGs

The argument to integrate sport into development spans wider than ensuring children have the right to play; it is about recognising sport as a tool to achieve the SDGs and gain firm recognition in the development arena.

2. A renewed global partnership and adequate means of implementation.

Sport and development occupies a unique space within private, public and non-profit sectors and has the potential for multilateral partnerships across all three.

3. Eradicating poverty in all its dimensions and addressing inequality

Sport can build stronger communities by bringing people together and use team identities to open up dialogue around community issues.

4. Promoting peaceful societies and strong institutions

As young people living in poverty become more susceptible to joining gangs, violent behaviour and drug trafficking, sport provides a therapy and pathway out of vulnerability.

5. Building strong, inclusive and resilient economies

Sport has the potential to be a social enterprise and support the development of individual and community economies.

6. Tackling climate change and achieving more sustainable lifestyles

There is huge potential to reduce the carbon footprint of events, as shown by solid commitments from American collegiate and sports federations like the NBA to use recycled materials and promote efficient energy usage.


This provides a snapshot of sport’s relevance in the development arena and the space sport has in bringing about change towards a world that is equal and just for all.
Sport has the power to bring change if we let it.