Using sport to advocate for vaccine equity

Sport is not just about physical activity and athleticism – it is also teaches us important soft skills, such as teamwork, communication and resilience, which are essential for our everyday lives. These soft skills have been essential in the world’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Indeed, sport has been hailed as an important tool which has helped our communities survive through the pandemic and which will be essential for us to build back better.

• Access resources and guidelines on using sport during COVID-19

The vaccination drive for COVID-19 has started in many countries. Yet, many of the people living in the most precarious situations in fragile places in the world do not have access to COVID-19 vaccines.

To this end, in the run up to the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) on 6 April, the UN is recognising the role that sport can play in communities and individual lives, and its integral role in building resilience in recovering from the pandemic.

The UN is calling on people to work together to promote vaccine equity and bring an end to the pandemic as soon as possible. Only by making everyone safe from the pandemic will we all be able to go out and play and cheer again!

What can you do?

To support the efforts of the UN this IDSDP, join the vaccine equity campaign by sharing a picture or video showing the value of sports in your life, along with a caption that highlights the importance of protecting ourselves from COVID-19. Post between 31 March and 6 April and include the hashtags #OnlyTogether and #SportDay, and don’t forget to add a message about vaccine equity!

You can also use any of the UN’s pre-made graphic social media cards, along with your caption and the hashtags.

Remember to tag the UN! @UN (Twitter) and @unitednations (FB/Instagram/TikTok). You can also tag us @sportanddev to share your support for the campaign with us.