International Weightlifting Federation celebrates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

This year, under the theme “Levelling the Playing Field: Sport for Social Inclusion”, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) highlights how sport contributes to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing its role in creating more inclusive and equitable societies.

As a proud member of the Olympic Movement, the IWF is committed to harnessing the power of weightlifting to drive social change and empower communities. Weightlifting is more than just an elite competition – it is a sport that brings people together at all levels.

IWF President Mohammed Jalood emphasised the sport’s role in ensuring inclusivity and social development: “Sport has the power to change lives and weightlifting is no exception. Both on and off the competition platform, we strengthen individuals and communities; providing opportunities for empowerment, enjoyment and personal growth. By working with our National Federations and global ecosystem, we are committed to making the sport accessible worldwide so more people can experience its transformative impact.” 

Athletes play a crucial role in promoting these values. Two-time Olympic weightlifting medallist Emily Campbell has been vocal about using her platform to create opportunities for young people: “I want to be more than just an athlete,” she recently told the BBC.

I would love to open my own gym for, predominately, youth and development. But I want anyone to be able to walk into my gym, to be able to have that community space to learn weightlifting, to learn physical literacy and to be comfortable and to live a healthy lifestyle.

- Olympic weightlifter Emily Campbell

Stories like Campbell’s highlight how weightlifting is changing lives, giving people the confidence and skills to build better futures and be part of a united community.

On this IDSDP, and on the road to the Olympic Games LA2028, the IWF remains committed to making weightlifting a vehicle for social inclusion, empowerment and peace – ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has a place in the sports’ global ecosystem.