United Nations Refugee Agency receives ‘Fair Play for Peace’ award on World Fair Play Day

The United Nations Refugee Agency (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) has been honoured with the ‘Fair Play for Peace’ award by the European Fair Play Movement, in recognition of its work to highlight the impact of sport on spreading the positive values of peace and solidarity across the world. The prize, awarded annually to an institution or association, highlights the positive impact of sport in spreading these essential values on a global scale.

The presentation of this second prize, succeeding the first ‘Fair Play for Peace’ prize awarded in September 2023 by the Jury of the Nobel Peace Prize Committee, took place today. It was presented by Philippe Housiaux, President of the European Fair Play Movement, and Ruggero Alcanterini, co-initiator of the Prize, to Kelly T. Clements, UNHCR’s Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees.

This award underlines UNHCR's unwavering commitment to initiatives such as the ‘More than a Game’ strategy, which promotes sport, not just as a form of entertainment, but as a powerful tool for promoting peace, the inclusion of refugees in their host communities, and the creation of bonds of solidarity between peoples.

“In sport, as with most things in their lives, refugees face enormous challenges to make it to the starting line, let alone win medals,” said Kelly T. Clements. “That’s why we at UNHCR want refugees to have a level playing field – to have access to the same opportunities, the same rights, the same facilities as everyone else. Fair Play sets them up for success.”

“Sport can empower and unite individuals and communities, contributing to peace, healing, development and growth,” she added. “This is why sport is so important to UNHCR’s work. We are delighted to accept this award in recognition of the role that sport can play in improving refugees’ lives.”

Philippe Housiaux went on to say: " The Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees should not exist if our world lived in harmony and peace. Unfortunately, 120 million people forcibly displaced are a daily reminder of the extent to which our society is incapable of finding acceptable human solutions. By granting this Award, the European Fair Play Movement is modestly acknowledging the immense hope represented by the work of the UNHCR: that of welcoming these people forcibly displaced in order to prepare for Peace".

06.09.2024