International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace is dedicated to promoting peace and erasing cultural barriers worldwide. It leverages sport as a vehicle for social change, encouraging dialogue, understanding, and social inclusion. This global observance asserts the significance of fostering a culture of peace, driving progress and bonding communities through sports. It aims at harnessing the potential that sport and physical activity holds in achieving sustainable development.

The United Nations General Assembly declared the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace in 2013. It was influenced by the successful inclusion of sports in the Millennium Development Goals. In New Zealand, the day is particularly relevant due to the nation's significant sporting culture. This day acknowledges the role of sports – from rugby, cricket to netball, and more – in establishing New Zealand's identity, promoting health and wellbeing, tourism, as well as in nation-building. New Zealand sportspersons have frequently served as ambassadors for peace and sustainable development, embodying the spirit of this day.

The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace is observed in New Zealand with various sporting activities and events. Sport organisations, communities and individuals are encouraged to showcase their commitment to these goals. There can be youth-focused sports events, community sports festivals, online awareness campaigns or interactive workshops. These activities promote an understanding of sports beyond competition, focussing on its capacity to foster mutual respect and understanding. This day is observed on the 6th of April, reaffirming sport’s role as a catalyst for peace and development.

Facts about this day

• The theme for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace in 2025 was Leveling the Playing Field: Sport for Social Inclusion, in 2024 it was Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies. in 2023 it was Scoring for People and the Planet.
• It is estimated that there are more than 8,000 sports played around the world. Only about 440 are recognized internationally however.
• The first Olympic Games were held in April of 1896 in Athens, Greece. At this point, only 9 sports were part of the games and only 14 countries competed. Men were the only ones allowed to compete as well.
• New Zealand has hosted several international sport-for-development events such as the Rugby World Cup 2011, which had 'Sport for Development' as one of its core agendas. During this event, discussions were held about how sport can be used as a tool to create a lasting positive impact in society.
• For many years, sports have been used as a tool for reconciliation and race relations with the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand, most notably via rugby union which has seen both non-Maori and Maori players representing the national team.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Help organize and take part in a sporting event for underprivileged kids such as KidSport or Right to Play International. Any amount of money donated goes toward helping underprivileged kids get involved in sports and keep them happy and healthy.
• Take a picture of you playing a sport and post it on social media with the caption Sport, Peace, and Development. Use the hashtag #iplay, #InternationalDayofSportforDevelopmentandPeace or #IDSDP on social media to spread awareness.
• Visit the Sports Hall of Fame: Located in Dunedin, The New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to honoring the country's top athletes.
• Read a book to learn more about Sport for Development and Peace in New Zealand:
  Sport, Culture and Society: An Introduction, Second Edition - by Grant Jarvie: This book delves into the role of sports in society, including its impact on development and peace. It provides general knowledge which can be applied to understand the context in New Zealand.
  Sport, Development, and Peace: An Analysis of the Role of Sport in Development and Peace-building - by Oliver Dudfield: A thorough analysis of sports' role in fostering peace and development.