Sport as a catalyst for change: Harnessing the power of sport for development and peace in the MENA region

Photo credit: Sports for Life Community Program, Tulkarem

Sport has long been recognized as a universal language that bridges divides, transcends cultural barriers, and fosters a sense of unity. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where communities face unique challenges including political instability, economic hardship, and social inequality, sport has emerged as a powerful tool for development and peacebuilding. Its ability to address societal issues while promoting individual and collective growth has proven to be transformative, particularly for marginalized populations such as women, children, and youth.

Transforming Lives Through Sport

Sport has been a catalyst for social change in MENA, particularly among women and youth. For example, in Palestine, organizations like Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L) empower youth and women through sports, blending athletic training with life skills, psychosocial support, and vocational education. Initiatives such as PS4L’s "Building Palestinian Girls' and Young Women's Resilience Through Running Program" and collaboration to provide training for teachers underscore how sport contributes to SDG 4 (quality education), SDG 5 (gender equality), and SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth).

These programs offer more than physical fitness; they provide safe spaces for self-expression and psychosocial healing in communities facing conflict, displacement, and economic hardship. The integration of sports festivals and after-school activities ensures broad participation, reaching students across diverse educational and social settings.

As someone who has been a volunteer in this field from a young age, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of sport. Through our programs, I’ve seen how mothers and daughters, especially in marginalized communities, have been profoundly impacted. For mothers, participating in sports-based psychosocial support programs has often led to enhanced confidence and emotional well-being, enabling them to better support their families. For daughters, engaging in these programs has built their self-esteem, improved their teamwork skills, and given them a sense of hope and agency over their futures. These changes have rippled outwards, fostering stronger family dynamics and a more cohesive community.

Lessons from Success

One key to success in sport for development is community-driven programming. In Palestine, PS4L’s recreational activities and psychosocial support initiatives for children and women highlight the importance of tailoring programs to local needs. By recruiting local trainers and engaging community leaders, the organization expanded its reach, fostering trust and ownership among participants.

Another crucial factor is the alignment with broader development goals. For instance, the renovation of sports facilities in UNRWA girls' schools in Jenin camp—paired with teacher training in child safeguarding and sports for development—addresses infrastructure and capacity-building simultaneously. These efforts not only improve physical spaces but also create sustainable frameworks for long-term impact.

Sport for development has added immense value as a tool for creating safe spaces where participants can learn life skills, manage stress, and cultivate resilience. It offers unique opportunities to bridge divides, challenge societal norms, and empower individuals. The collaborative and inclusive nature of sports fosters empathy, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging—qualities essential for personal growth and community cohesion.

Looking Ahead

The future of sport for development in the MENA region is promising. By leveraging partnerships, investing in local leadership, and fostering innovation, the sector can continue to transform lives. Initiatives like the Qatar Fund for Development’s support for Arabic-language resources and global online courses are paving the way for more inclusive and impactful programs.

As we move forward, let us remember that sport is not just a game—it is a powerful tool for building resilience, promoting peace, and achieving sustainable development in the MENA region and beyond.

About the author

Maysoun Nakhleh is a Program Manager at Palestine: Sports for Life, focusing on empowering marginalized communities through sports for development initiatives. With years of experience as a volunteer and advocate, I have witnessed the transformative impact of sports on individuals and communities. Connect on https://www.facebook.com/PalS4L/ or visit https://ps4l.org/

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