Translated with AI
The United Nations has emphasized the important role of sport in promoting equality, peace, and sustainable development. This was stated by UN Women Director-General Sima Bacchus at an event commemorating the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, according to the UN press service.
The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace is celebrated annually on April 6 and provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of sport and physical activity in the lives of people around the world. In 2026, a special focus will be placed on how sport helps build bridges and overcome barriers.
It is noted that in recent years, more and more people have shown interest in women's sporting competitions. In particular, in 2023, the Women's World Cup matches were watched by approximately one billion people.
The UN recalled that sport was recognized as a tool for women's empowerment back in the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action and was also reaffirmed in the final conclusions of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in 2025.
At the same time, it is emphasized that a number of groups continue to face barriers and discrimination. These include, in particular, LGBTIQ+ women, women wearing the hijab, women with disabilities, and representatives of marginalized ethnic and racial groups.
Sima Bacchus noted that sport remains the universal language of humanity and a space where a sense of dignity, belonging, and new opportunities are fostered.
According to her, significant changes have been observed in recent years. The 2024 Paris Olympics were the first to feature gender parity, and at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, the proportion of female athletes was 47 percent.
It is emphasized that sport has the power to unite people, promote dialogue, trust, and mutual respect even in unstable conditions, remaining an important factor in peace.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN, Aliya bint Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, said sport is a powerful driver of human development and social progress.
According to her, hosting major international sporting events is seen not only as a platform for sporting achievements, but also as an opportunity to create a significant social legacy, promote sustainable development, and strengthen international understanding.
The event was organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs jointly with the Permanent Missions of Monaco and Qatar to the UN, as well as with the participation of a number of UN system entities and organizations.
