Sport and refugees

Sport is present in almost every community in the world. People from all over the world practice, follow, or participate in it. In many cases, sport is managed locally, has well-established local and national infrastructure and coordination, and provides an essential and reliable service.

Sport has also been present in displacement contexts since UNHCR began working with refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers. For these people, displaced by conflict, violence, or persecution, sport can be much more than a simple leisure activity; it can offer an opportunity for inclusion and protection: an opportunity to heal, develop, and grow.

By mid-2024, UNHCR estimates that more than 120 million people worldwide had been displaced from their homes, 65% of whom were from just four countries: the Syrian Arab Republic, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Afghanistan. The majority are under the age of 18.

The Global Compact on Refugees, the international framework for more durable solutions to refugee situations, has highlighted the need for broader social action to address the challenges faced by displaced people and the communities that continue to generously host them. Sport can play a pivotal role in this regard. Around the world, organizations are using sport as a tool for protection and inclusion, to improve health and well-being, combat inequalities, and work toward more cohesive societies.

Sport has the potential to break down cultural barriers, improve physical and mental well-being, and create opportunities for more cohesive societies. From intentionally designed and implemented sporting activities that engage displaced and host communities, to using the incredible communication platform of sport to reach new audiences and tell refugee stories, sport has the potential to generate lasting change for displaced communities.

This page is aimed at organizations that use or wish to use sport in their work with refugees, internally displaced persons, asylum seekers, and host communities. It provides general information on the topic, information and links to key resources, as well as guidance and advice on key aspects to consider when working with displaced people.

Credits:

• This section was developed in partnership with the Refugee Sports Coalition.
• For more information, please contact the Refugee Sport Coalition co-organizers at [email protected] .
• The logo image at the top of this page was created by UNHCR.