One year after the Global Refugee Forum, sport continues to showcase its transformative power for displaced communities. During the event, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach emphasized the importance of multisectoral partnerships to support refugees and those displaced by conflict. In this context, the Sport for Refugees Coalition, composed of the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF), UNHCR, and the Scort Foundation, has reached nearly half a million people through sports and recreational activities, highlighting the positive impact of such initiatives.

In December 2023, Bach unveiled the Multi-Stakeholder Pledge on Sport for Inclusion and Protection, an effort to use sport as a key tool for integrating displaced populations. This commitment has led to collaboration among over 143 entities and the implementation of programs in 82 countries, benefiting more than 445,000 people affected by displacement. A notable achievement is the enhanced access to sports through the rehabilitation or construction of over 100 sports facilities, allowing more than 120,000 individuals to benefit from these opportunities.

A MOVEMENT CONTINUES TO GROW

The progress made over the past year is the result of collective efforts by various organizations working in the field of sports. The Sport for Refugees Coalition has been pivotal in bringing these entities together and fostering collaboration among them. Over 70% of the committed organizations have implemented their pledges in partnership with others, demonstrating the power of multisectoral alliances in supporting displaced populations.

Additionally, the involvement of the Olympic Movement has been significant in this process. Thirty-three National Olympic Committees and 24 International Federations have pledged to support displaced individuals through sport. This joint effort underscores that sport is not only a tool for inclusion but also a powerful platform for empowering young refugees, helping them rebuild their lives and find their place in the world.