International Sports Day for Development and Peace: Leveling the playing field – Sport for social inclusion – Key issues and insights

Regardless of how one perceives it or the interpretations provided to sports and their benefits, sports are undeniably a powerful tool for social inclusion and the promotion of general well -being. International Sports Day for Development and Peace (IDSDP) 2025 should be celebrated globally on April 6, 2025, under the theme “Leveling the playing field: sports for social inclusion”. Observed every year on April 6, the IDSDP recognizes the transformative power of sports in guiding a positive change, breaking down barriers and transcending the boundaries.

In his book prospects in the development of sport, Ebere Amraiizu describes sport as one of the most vital human activities, characterized by his multifaceted nature. As a competitive effort, sport cultivates a spirit of resilience, both in the victory and in defeat, which reflects the essential qualities in business and life. In addition to the competition, sports relationships love among the participants, both direct and indirect, supporting the hope of success in the present and in the future. In addition, sport improves cognitive, emotional and psychomotor skills, contributing to holistic personal development.

*Sport and social inclusion*
Social inclusion through sport refers to the process of improving participation in society by exploiting sport as a tool. This entails the improvement of the opportunities, abilities and dignity of individuals and groups disadvantaged by their identity. Sports play a fundamental role in promoting equal opportunities and building inclusive companies. By bringing together people at stake, the dismantling of sport, the connections and combine individuals through centuries, languages, religions, cultures and socio -economic backgrounds. They promote gender inclusiveness, support physically capable and disabled people and the bridge is divided between the rich and the least privileged, as well as the political leaders and their components. In fact, sport is widely considered a unifying force.

*Sport, mental health and inclusion*
Participation in inclusive sports contributes significantly to mental well -being by promoting the social connections that raise mood, reduce stress, are combat it and improve social inclusion. The growing awareness of mental health through sport can break down barriers, create environments in which several groups build confidence, challenge the cultural and social stigmas and strengthen community ties. Sports offer opportunities for interaction, teamwork and development of significant relationships, which strengthen mental well -being.

*Olympic values ​​and inclusiveness*
The Olympic values ​​- excitement, respect and friendship – undergo the ethos of the inclusion of sport. These principles imagine a world in which everyone can engage in sport without discrimination, promoting mutual unity and understanding through shared experiences. Roomed in a philosophy that integrates the body, will and mind, the Olympic movement promotes a lifestyle rooted with joy, a positive role modeling, social responsibility and respect for human rights.
While the world unites to celebrate the IDSDP, we must recognize the strength of sport as a unifying force that celebrates diversity, builds bridges, promotes fair play and guarantees that nobody is left behind. Sports transcend the differences in language, race, culture, economic state, education, politics, religion and gender, offering a platform for social inclusion, diversity and equality for everyone, both advantaged and disadvantaged. Governments, individuals, leaders in the sector and faith -based organizations should take this opportunity to establish high -performance community sports centers such as hub for commitment and development. Incentives for certified coaches, together with regular sports festivals, should be priority to strengthen the sports paintings of the community and unlock socio -economic opportunities. Sports, after all, have the potential to improve the basis of revenue of companies, states and nations.

*Information on the author*
Coach Ebere Amraiizu is a certified cognitive therapy coach (CBT), an IVLP pupil of the United States government and an Olympic administrator and director. Graduated from the National Institute for Sports (NIS), he was a member of the Board of Directors and South Zonal Director -est of the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), general manager of Crime FC Enugu, president of the Engu State Taekwondo Association and president of the Enugu State Boxing Association. Coach Amraiizu is a prolific author, with works that include prospects in the development of sport and sport as a tool for solving problems. He currently chairs the Rangers International FC Foundation and acts as a main consultant at the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation.

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