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Tracking ‘Sport for Development’ worldwide |
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| Tracking ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) worldwide |
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With a global pandemic influencing the way S4D is being implemented, new learning opportunities in digital form are being developed to reach the S4D community and target group.
Facts and figures of ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D). Photo © GIZ |
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Study confirms Impact of ‘Sport for Development’ in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
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by Mareike Broermann and Viviane Raub
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| Sport is increasingly used as a powerful tool to contribute to the achievement of different SDGs such as gender equality (SDG 5) or health and wellbeing (SDG 3). Since 2018, GIZ is introducing gender-sensitive sport activities in camps for internally displaced persons and host communities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. |
| Sport for Development promotes gender equality. Photo © Samyan Al-Barwari |
To evaluate whether GIZ’s ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) approach is a meaningful tool to especially promote gender equality, prevent gender-based violence against women and girls, and strengthen psychosocial well-being, GIZ joined forces with the German Sport University Cologne and the University of Dohuk (Iraq). In a quasi-experimental study, 636 records of children and adolescents (thereof 317 in the intervention group and 319 in the comparison group) were collected in a quantitative baseline survey. The endline survey was conducted after six to seven months of intervention. In addition, focus group discussions were conducted.
The study shows that GIZ’s S4D approach is a highly effective and meaningful tool. In particular, the offered S4D activities improved attitudes toward gender equality and reduced the acceptance of and propensity for gender-based violence against women and girls. S4D also measurably increased psychosocial well-being – and as a positive unintended impact – reinforced inclusive behaviour toward other religions and ethnic groups, demonstrating an additional impact on SDG 10.
Further information:
» The evaluation report can be found here
» Factsheets on the main research findings and further information on the project in Iraq can be found here
Contact:
mareike.broermann@giz.de
viviane.raub@giz.de |
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| Ibero-American Sports Council unanimously approves first regional Indicators in the Framework of the American Sport Summit in Cartagena, Colombia |
by Maria-José Munoz Calvo
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| Colombia's Ministry of Sport hosted the American Sport Summit in Cartagena in May. In this frame, the Ibero-American Sport Council (CID) celebrated its XXIX General Assembly. Ministers and high-level authorities from more than 20 member states participated and officially approved the first regional indicators. |
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| Colombia's Minister of Sport, Astrid Bibiana Rodriguez (second from right), together with the Sport for Development Team in Colombia. Photo © CID |
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The 12 standardised regional indicators allow the region to identify the impact of sport on the development of their countries, establish baselines, identify the progress and common challenges, and promote joint work.
The proposal of the regional indicators was a joint effort between the CID, ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D), and UNESCO. The pilot implementation phase will soon begin in selected countries with the support of the Development Bank of Latin America CAF.
This valuable experience was recently presented at the MINEPS VII in Baku by the President of CID, Sebastian Palacios (Minister of Sport of Ecuador), and it is an inspiration for other regions of the world.
Contact:
maria-jose.munoz@giz.de |
| ‘Get to know’ Workshop for Youth Ambassadors in the Western Balkans |
by Afrim Iljazi
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| Twenty ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) Youth Ambassadors from the Western Balkans participated in the inaugural 'Get to know' workshop held in Struga, North Macedonia, from 1 to 4 June 2023. Participants spent three days getting to know each other and learning how to use the transformative power of sport. |
| Future S4D Youth Ambassadors get to know each other during a practical session at the workshop in Struga, North Macedonia. Photo © GIZ |
The goal of the workshop was to teach attendees the fundamentals of the 'Sport for Development‘ methodology and how to apply it to create change in their communities. This is the start of our long-term capacity development programme that supports youth to become agents of change in their local communities.
The S4D Youth Ambassadors Programme brings together young people from the Western Balkans to foster equal participation in social, political, and economic life and inspire their peers to drive positive changes at a local level through the S4D approach. Besides that, the programme interconnects young people via the global S4D community with other S4D Youth Ambassadors from countries like Colombia, Pakistan, and Tunisia.
Contact:
afrim.iljazi@giz.de |
| Kenya Call for Essays: S(H)e Scores for People and the Planet |
by Frankline Olukohe and Mariam Ibrahim
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Sports can be an important ally in the fight to achieve gender equality through its potential to break barriers and contribute to positive change. There is a need to make sport safer and more accessible for everyone, especially women and girls.
Accordingly, together with partners in Kenya, Sport for 'Development' in Africa (S4DA) is excited to announce a call for essays on the theme of 'S(H)e Scores for People and the Planet.' This initiative aims at harnessing the power of Physical Education (P.E.) curricula and sports programmes addressing societal challenges and promoting gender equality. |
| The initiative 'S(H)e Scores for People and the Planet' is promoted by a flyer. Photo © GIZ |
Teachers play a pivotal role in addressing gender inequalities by including and developing gender equality modules in their P.E. and sports sessions. Through this, they can empower youth in becoming change agents in their communities. All youth, both male and female, need to be aware of gender inequalities to enable a more equal and inclusive future for all.
Why are P.E. and sport essential for the holistic development of children and youth? How can we best activate the power of sport to promote gender equality? P.E. and sports teachers in Kenya are invited to share their perspectives on the essential role of P.E. and sport in the holistic development of children and youth and to activate the power of sport to promote gender equality.
The deadline for submission is 15 August 2023. Winners will be awarded an equipment set including skipping ropes, hula hoops, balls, cones, bibs, pressure pump, whistle, and an equipment bag on World Teacher’s Day, 5 October 2023. In addition, the winning essays will also be published on the Kenya Academy of Sports website and sportanddev platform. For more information on the contest guidelines and selection criteria please contact frankline.olukohe@giz.de.
Contact:
frankline.olukohe@giz.de
mariam.ibrahim@giz.de |
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| Empowering Women in Pakistan through ‘Sport for Development’ |
by Ilyas,Muhammad
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Women in Pakistan constitute more than half of the population; however, they still face several challenges due to socio-economic constraints. There are limited opportunities for women to receive higher education, and the available opportunities in the country are not very conducive to ensuring a stable career for them. In such cases, it is vital to engage women in activities that give them avenues to learn new life skills and offer recreation opportunities.
In this context, the Global Programme ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) in Pakistan has collaborated with Women's University in Mardan to establish a platform that offers female students with different opportunities to learn new life skills and engage in sport-related activities. The platform is called the 'Sport for Development Society'. The S4D Society has roughly 20 female members who have been oriented to the S4D approach. They will later receive further training on a contextualized S4D curriculum to enable them to fulfil the role of an S4D Coach in the university, engaging an additional 3,000 students on the approach and activities of S4D. |
| A 'Sport for Development' (S4D) Society has been established at Women's University in Mardan, Pakistan, to empower university students with life skills and provide recreational opportunities on campus. Photo © GIZ Pakistan |
The Global Programme ‘Sport for Development’ will ensure continuous follow-up with the S4D Society and its members to engage them in S4D activities within the university. This will provide the students with the opportunity to learn new life skills through the S4D approach and maintain good mental and physical health by regularly participating in S4D activities. The S4D Society members will also implement S4D initiatives focused on social issues with the aim of broadening the impact of the S4D approach and empowering more women.
Contact:
muhammad.ilyas@giz.de |
| Celebrating Menstrual Hygiene Day in Senegal |
by Catherine Daraspe and Mariam Ibrahim
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| Despite impacting the lives of women and girls around the world, menstruation continues to be a taboo subject. Together with ApiAfrique and Dakar Sacré Coeur 'Sport for Development' in Africa (S4DA) celebrated Menstrual Hygiene Day on 28 May challenging stereotypical beliefs about menstruation and girls’ and women’s participation in sport. |
| Over 100 girls and boys from various communities in Dakar came together for awareness-raising workshops about the usage of washable and reusable sanitary kits and for football, athletics, and dance activities. Photo © Sandy Barry |
During the event, the Badiénou Gokh, key female community actors for health promotion, sensitised girls, boys, and mothers around the topic of menstrual hygiene management. The objective was to ensure community commitment to maternal, child, and adolescent health – while adapting to Senegalese socio-cultural values.
Girls and boys were able to ask athlete Gnima Faye, footballer Aissatou Seck and the Badiénou Gokh questions about how to participate in sport while menstruating, the types of sanitary products available, and the free Weerwi application that allows you to track your menstrual cycle.
Contact:
catherine.daraspe@giz.de
mariam.ibrahim@giz.de
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How partners build capacities with ‘Sport for Development’ |
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| Public Expert Discussion on the Impact of ‘Sport for Development’ at the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development of the German Bundestag |
by Luise Haunit
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For a decade now, German development cooperation has been using 'Sport for Development' to improve the prospects of children and young people in our partner countries, among other things by developing a wide range of life skills. The 'Sport for Development' theme is supported by strong partnerships, including those with the German Football Association (DFB), the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), the German Football League (DFL) and numerous partners from politics, business, academia and civil society.
On 24 May 2023, the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development (AWZ) of the German Bundestag addressed the topic of ‘Sport for Development’ in a public expert discussion. Dr Karen Petry, Deputy Director of the Institute for European Sport Development and Leisure Research at the Sport University Cologne, Dr Christina Gassner, Director of Institutional and Political Relations and Strategy at the German Football Association (DFB) and the former national football player and "Sport for Development" ambassador Nia Künzer were invited to the session as experts.
According to the experts, Sport can make an important contribution to strengthening social cohesion in developing countries, promoting gender equality and increasing the employability of young people in the course of development cooperation. Studies have impressively confirmed that sport, used correctly, has 'enormous potential', Dr Karen Petry emphasised. It has a positive impact on central goals of development cooperation such as the promotion of girls, conflict resolution and the prevention of violence, and teaches important skills on a personal level. The 2030 Agenda also lists sport as an important tool for sustainable development.
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| 'Sport for Development' experts Dr Karen Petry, Christina Gassner and Nia Künzer (from left to right) at the public hearing at the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development of the German Bundestag. Photo © GIZ |
The DFB is also involved in the ‘Sport for Development’ programme: 'In September 2022, we renewed our partnership agreement,' Christina Gassner explained to the MPs. Together with local football associations and non-governmental organisations, Germany's largest sports federation conducts workshops lasting several days in selected countries and also works to implement the 'Sport for Development' approach on the ground. So far, it has reached almost 150,000 children and young people in 14 partner countries and qualified more than 300 coach trainers. 'Sport is a unique medium,' said Gassner. It bridges gender, language and religion and enables access to people who are otherwise difficult to reach.
The Parliamentary State Secretary at the BMZ, Niels Annen (SPD), assured that the topic has 'high priority' in his ministry, especially in relation to the EURO24 in Germany as well as to achieving the BMZ's goals in the current legislative period. The 'Sport for Development' approach has proven its effectiveness, and greater use in the programmes and projects of German Development Cooperation on the ground is expressly welcomed. At the moment, however, it is only possible to plan for the current legislative period, after which the declining financial plan will bring with it a variety of challenges for German Development Cooperation. 'It is in the power of the German Bundestag to change these things,' said Annen.
Nia Künzer highlighted how positively Germany's engagement in this area is perceived. 'The children and young people are made to understand that Germany is interested in them.' German sport is also seen as an important brand abroad. It can help to convey the values of the Federal Government in dialogue with partner countries. 'In the meantime, a real 'Sport for Development' community has emerged,' Künzer emphasised.
In summary, the ‘Sport for Development’ commitment is held in high esteem and, together with partners such as the DFB, the intention is to make even greater use of the socially transformative power of sport to promote the development of girls and young women in the BMZ partner countries.
Contact:
luise.haunit@giz.de |
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by Dr Karen Petry and Viviane Raub
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Dr Karen Petry, German Sport University, and Viviane Raub, ‘Sport for Development’, are in conversation with each other about the recently published impact studies about 'Sport for Development'.
‘Spo(r)tlight on!’: It is widely known that sport has certain health benefits and positive impacts on mental well-being. But why is it important to measure the impacts of sport or more specifically of ‘Sport for Development’? |
| Dr Karen Petry is a Research Associate and Deputy Director of the Institute for European Sport Development and Leisure Research at the German Sport University Cologne. She has more than 30 years of experience in evaluating international development projects and conducted studies in South Africa, Colombia, Sri Lanka, the Palestinian Territories, Turkey, and the Western Balkans. A central part of her university activities relates to project collaborations with GIZ. Photo © private |
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Dr Karen Petry (KP): While scientific monitoring and evaluation are common components of policy and practice in other fields and there has been an increased effort to improve the quality, the ‘Sport for Development’ sector still lacks scientific evidence and impact measurement approaches. From a more scientific perspective, there is a growing criticism in the international dimension of the implementation of measures that are sometimes not based on a thorough analysis, but often arise from an idealized practice. But demand for impact measurement in the context of sport-related development cooperation has increased from both sides, the donors as well as the implementing actors, which is a promising signal.
Viviane Raub (VR): Yes, I agree. As an implementing development agency, we see an increasing demand for thorough impact measurement from our commissioning party, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). In the last years, we also observed a trend towards a more evidence-based development cooperation. Although this is not a new concept – evidence-based policy was already mentioned in the Millennium Development Goals – recently the call for more evidence has triggered a more intensive discussion in development cooperation.
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| Viviane Raub has been working as an advisor for GIZ since 2017. After positions in Burundi and Morocco in governance projects, she is currently responsible for impact measurement in the GIZ global programme 'Sport for Development'. She holds a B.Sc. in Social Sciences from University of Cologne and an M.Sc. in International Development and Management from University of Lund, Sweden. She is a member of DeGEval – the German evaluation society. Photo © private |
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KP: For the future of the whole field of ‘Sport for Development’ it’s becoming more and more important to prove the effects in order to legitimize sport-related projects and programmes. Despite efforts to produce valid and objective results, the problem of the evaluation gap prevails: few evaluations are carried out that focus on the medium and long-term effects and can answer the question 'What works under which conditions?'. In general, there are not enough impact studies and also not enough studies according to scientific standards.
VR: And it is so important to have evidence to corroborate our claims and demonstrate that ‘Sport for Development’ interventions do create impact. Using evidence to amplify results in development cooperation is essential in today’s settings.
‘Spo(r)tlight on!’: What are the challenges in conducting impact studies in ‘Sport for Development’?
VR: Conducting Rigorous Impact Evaluations was a first for us. And the set-up of such studies requires certain framework conditions that must be met. For example, having comparison groups that do not participate in ‘Sport for Development’ activities but are part of the data collection required some long MS team calls and conversations. Working in sensitive contexts and with minors, we needed to assure that our study design follows the do-no-harm approach and does not raise ethical concerns. And to understand what could be measured, we needed to know the exact content, length, and intensity of the ‘Sport for Development’ intervention. We also introduced training plans which coaches adhered to in order to measure exactly what is being trained on the ground. This was something that was met with scepticism at first but proved to be a key success factor for the studies’ results. In the end, it was a great learning on how to ensure quality and good results.
KP: I agree, conducting an impact study is a very complex process… not only from the methodological perspective. But it’s also a challenge to convince the involved stakeholders to invest time, and human as well as financial resources into this process. Unfortunately, in the whole field of ‘Sport for Development’, there is a big difference between aspiration and reality.
‘Spo(r)tlight on!’: GIZ and the German Sport University have a longstanding relationship and have cooperated several times beforehand. But this was the first time to conduct an impact study. What were the specifics of this cooperation?
KP: In general, the cooperation between the German Sport University and GIZ is based on mutual trust, respect, and partnership. We worked hand in hand in a very respectful manner between my team, the GIZ team from the headquarter as well as the teams on site. The most important success factor was clear and transparent communication about the decisions we took during the whole process. Furthermore, our common interest in finding solutions for all obstacles as well as the flexibility from both parties helped a lot. And finally, for my university team it was very interesting to get some insights into the work and logistics of a development cooperation project.
VR: We really appreciated this cooperation. It was characterised by great team spirit and a good working atmosphere. And for us, conducting impact studies together with a university instead of a consulting firm added more value and scientific validity to our evaluations and results. It was great to have backstopping support from scientists.
KP: Another aspect that I believe is important: universities could play a more active role in the field of ‘Sport for Development’. From a scientific knowledge production point of view, we have a lot to share and can support the development of the field through collaborations like conducting joint impact evaluations, as was the case in this project.
VR: I agree. Moreover, developing capacities in impact evaluation in our sector was an important side-effect for both the German Sport University and GIZ. We are not only disseminating the results but also our tools such as questionnaires and a manual for ‘Sport for Development’ practitioners as an open resource for everyone keen on conducting impact studies themselves.
‘Spo(r)tlight on!’: And would you say ‘Sport for Development’ creates an impact?
VR: In general, we obtained impressive results on SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), 5 (Gender Equality) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities): In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, psychosocial well-being of the target group substantially increases due to ‘Sport for Development’. Attitudes towards gender equality change towards more egalitarian views and attitudes in the target group. We also observed a reduction in the acceptance of and propensity for gender-based violence against women and girls.
KP: Also of particular interest was the finding that mixed sport teams increase the psychosocial well-being of boys more than all-boys teams. This means that male participants benefit from the presence of female participants.
VR: And we obtained some unintended positive results as well…
KP: Yes exactly, the findings demonstrate that ‘Sport for Development’ strengthens inclusive behaviour towards other religions and ethnicities. Social cohesion was not a primary target of the intervention in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq however, since it is such a highly diverse religious and ethnic context, we checked for it anyway. And were positively surprised.
VR: And we also have some promising results on SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Employability skills in the Western Balkans improve due to ‘Sport for Development’, although with a small effect size likely due to the shorter intervention period of three to four months.
KP: Since you mentioned the intervention period – from all studies we can deduce that a sufficient intervention period, well-developed training manuals and subsequent trainings, experienced and qualified coaches, continuous monitoring of the implementation, and trusted implementation partners are key in achieving impacts.
‘Spo(r)tlight on!’: So, what comes next?
VR: The studies legitimise our work, they back up our claims with evidence, which is great, especially for our advocacy work.
KP: Yes, and from an academic dissemination perspective it’s very important to publish the results in scientific journals. Another step would be to reflect on the experiences and findings of the whole range of impact studies, which we conducted together (for example in Morocco, Colombia, or Western Balkans) and maybe further develop the guidelines for impact evaluation in ‘Sport for Development’, which we already published on the ‘Sport for Development’ website.
VR: Great idea. And we have two more impact studies planned. One on employability and the other one on gender equality and social cohesion. As you see, it is not over yet, it just started.
‘Spo(r)tlight on!’: Thank you both for this 'talk with impact'.
Contact:
petry@dshs-koeln.de
viviane.raub@giz.de
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| United for Development – Inclusive ‘Sport for Development’ in Action |
by Dina Klingmann, Luise Haunit und Thomas Trümper
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From 17 to 25 June 2023, the Special Olympics World Games (SOWG) took place in Berlin. A colourful international sport festival with the aim of achieving greater recognition and social participation of people with intellectual disabilities in our society. The SWOG are the largest inclusive sporting event in the world. For the first time, Germany hosted the Games and was a resounding success. Thousands of athletes with intellectual and multiple disabilities competed in 26 sports supported by coaches, families, volunteers and 330,000 spectators from all around the globe.
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| The official mascot of the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin 2023. Photo © SOWG |
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Sport and physical activity offer opportunities to bring people with and without disabilities together, to break down prejudices, to enable participation and to strengthen self-confidence and togetherness. As part of SWOG, the Global Forum for Inclusion – Partnering for Action, took place from 17 to 18 June 2023 at the Berlin Congress Centre. On the day of the official opening of SOWG, the work of the German Development Cooperation and its partners for more inclusive societies and 'Sport for Development' (S4D) was brought closer to youth, athletes, researchers, and representatives of governmental and non-governmental organisations.
State Secretary (StS) Jochen Flasbarth highlighted the inspiring atmosphere of the forum that managed to bring the emotions, dynamics and challenges from the sporting field into a conference set-up. Major sporting events have the potential to illuminate various socially relevant issues in a multifaceted way and to shine the spotlight on global contexts and national approaches. That is why it is also an important signal that Berlin, after the 1936 Olympic Games, is now presenting itself as an open, inclusive and colourful host city for major sporting events. Many people are still denied access to education in particular. For example, almost half of all children with disabilities worldwide are not in school.
This is why StS Flasbarth emphasised the necessary engagement of international cooperation especially for equal participation of children with intellectual disabilities in the area of education. ‘Inclusion is a cross-cutting issue. It therefore requires attention and resources from policymakers in order to implement inclusion effectively and sustainably in various areas. Inclusion is a human right, so we need to focus more on the strengths, opportunities and potentials that arise from inclusion.’
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| 'United for Development – Inclusive Sport for Development in Action' was the interactive format offered by GIZ and around 50 interested forum participants followed the invite by Head of BMZ Division for Education Dr Heike Kuhn. Photo © GIZ |
Of course, this work requires strong and engaged partnerships and Germany is glad to work with different partner countries and dedicated organisations like Special Olympics in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Western Balkans and the Middle East on inclusive sport and educational programmes especially for young people. Together with Jordan and the International Disability Alliance (IDA), German Development Cooperation will host the Global Disability Summit 2025 in Berlin to further highlight the inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities around the world.
Under the impression of the inspiring and reality driven keynote speeches especially by Haseeb Abbasi, athlete representative from Special Olympics Pakistan and Sargent Shriver Global Messenger, participants of the forum were invited to join different breakout sessions. |
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| 'United for Development – Inclusive Sport for Development in Action' at the Special Olympics World Games. Photo © GIZ |
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Perspectives of how to involve young people with and without disabilities into inclusive sport practices and build capacities of trainers and teachers were presented jointly by Genevieve Bamu (National Director of Special Olympics Uganda) and Vanja Varadinova (Special Education Specialist from North Macedonia). Both are dedicated ‘Sport for Development’ multipliers in their countries that are willing to share their knowledge and experience and open to involving other professionals, coaches and athletes to drive participation and reciprocal learning. The GIZ Global Project 'Sport for Development' represented by Dina Klingmann and Luise Haunit thus formed the bridge between the conference content and the interactive encounter of people with and without impairments.
Sporting events like the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin create a framework that enables encounters, this was not only noticed by athletes, spectators, and visitors of the Games but surely also by the citizens of Berlin. The needs and potential of people with disabilities must be given greater consideration overall, because the potential of inclusion for the economic and social development of a society is great and a benefit for all sides. Not only people with disabilities benefit from a reduction in barriers, but society as a whole. Encountering and living diversity, not only on the sports field but in everyday life, enriches our societies.
Further information:
» Special Olympics World Games 2023
Contact:
dina.klingmann@giz.de
luise.haunit@giz.de
thomas.truemper@giz.de
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| Cooperation between VfB Stuttgart and GIZ promotes environmental Awareness through ‘Sport for Development’ in Kenya |
by Hannes Utescher
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| Bundesliga club VfB Stuttgart and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) – on behalf of German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) – have made a significant contribution to the promotion of ‘Sport for Development’ in Kenya. As part of their partnership, a workshop and football camps were organized, providing valuable knowledge on different topics. |
| Together, the 18 coaches learned to use 'Sport for the Development' of children and youth. Photo © @VfB Stuttgart |
| During VfB's visit to Kenya, 24 Kenyan football coaches participated in a four-day workshop, where they received a comprehensive introduction to the S4D (‘Sport for Development’) approach. The workshop, led by S4D instructor Andrew Oloo, facilitated discussions on the importance of environmental awareness and sustainability in today's world, as well as gender equality in sports. |
| Sport moves, sport educates - and is fun at the same time. Photo © @VfB Stuttgart |
In collaboration with GIZ and 18 local coaches, the VfB organised the 'VfB Kids Camp', a football camp for 80 children. Through various station-based training activities, the children honed their skills in catching, coordination, and football games, while also learning important values. They participated in an environmental quiz and engaged in their competitions, further enhancing the enjoyment of sports.
The week-long visit culminated in the 'VfB Family Fun Day 2023' held in Nairobi. This event brought together 200 boys and girls from the 'Kick off to Hope' project, initiated by Musa Otieno, former captain and record-breaking national football player of Kenya. The children received valuable tips on playing with the ball, along with food rations for a whole week and donated VfB Stuttgart jerseys.
Contact:
hannes.utescher@giz.de |
| Let’s celebrate – the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace |
by Steffen Reich
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| It's always nice when there's something to celebrate. Every year, April 6 is a reason for ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) to celebrate and get creative. Three years ago, we held a contest calling for the best exercises for children and young people under COVID conditions to send in. Two years ago, we launched our new S4D film. And last year, we were able to bring together all three S4D Ambassadors and many other important partners to make a statement with our 'High-Five Action'. |
| 'Sport for Development' celebrates this year's IDSDP by forming an human chain raising awareness to the issue of huma rights. Photo © GIZ |
This year, we wanted to draw attention to the issue of human rights and formed a virtual human chain for this purpose with a mosaic post on Instagram. We are already looking forward to next year and another reason to celebrate S4D together with you.
Further information:
» See the complete Instagram post here
Contact:
steffen.reich@giz.de |
| Deliberations on the Power of Sports as a Tool for Youth Development in Africa at the 4th Specialized Technical Committee Meeting on Youth, Culture and Sports |
by Jonas Sell
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| From 22 to 26 May 2023, the African Union’s (AU) Fourth Specialized Technical Committee for Youth, Culture and Sport (STC-YCS4) took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The STC-YCS is an organ of the African Union made up of Ministers of Youth, Culture and Sports for all 55 AU Member States. It meets every two years to endorse policies, strategies, and recommendations for the promotion of arts, culture and sport as essential tools for youth development, regional integration, and social cohesion in Africa. |
| H.E. Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development (HHS), during her welcoming remarks at the 4th Specialized Technical Committee Meeting on Youth, Culture and Sports (STC-YCS4) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Photo © African Union |
A major milestone under sport was the STC-YCS4’s endorsement of the AU Policy for Sustainable Development of Sports in Africa 2023-2033. The Policy gives guidance for AU Member States and the entire African Sports movement on how to use sport as a tool for socio-economic development and how to develop policies and programmes that promote inclusive right-based sports, physical education & physical activity. Furthermore, the relevance of continental guidelines for safeguarding in sport was underlined. The STC-YCS4 requested all AU Member States and sports stakeholders to develop legislation that safeguards athletes, administrators, spectators, and members of the public involved in the sporting environment. The ‘Safeguarding in Sport and Sport for Development (S4D) Contexts in Africa: A Practitioner’s Guide from Policy to Action’ was distributed to all present delegates. The Guide, launched by the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) and supported by the Regional Project ‘Sport for Development’ in Africa (S4DA), gives guidance to all Member States and the African sports movement at large to develop and implement safeguarding policies from national to grassroots level. It is accessible online in all official AU languages (see links below).
Dr Decius Chipande, AUSC Coordinator, commended that the STC-YCS, which is the main organ responsible for the governance of sports in the African Union, stressed the importance of safeguarding athletes and everyone involved in a sporting context.
Further information:
» See the Practitioner’s Guide in Englisch
» See the Practitioner’s Guide in French
» See the Practitioner’s Guide in Arabic
» See the Practitioner’s Guide in Kiswahili
» See the Practitioner’s Guide in Spanish
» See the Practitioner’s Guide in Portuguese
Contact:
jonas.sell@giz.de |
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| Highlights from MINEPS VII in Baku, Azerbaijan |
by Patrick Jannaschk-Schmitz
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| ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) participated in the Multistakeholder Forum at the prestigious MINEPS conference, the 7th edition of the International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport, convened by UNESCO from 26t to 29 of June in Baku. |
| Jens Elsner presenting Sport for Development at MINEPS. Photo © GIZ |
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At MINEPS VII, S4D has joined policy makers and experts to discuss the transformative power of sports and the crucial role it plays in promoting inclusive societies, empowering individuals, and advancing gender equality.
One of the highlights was the engaging Youth Empowerment Round Table, where we came together with young leaders and other experts from around the world to exchange perspectives, share ideas, and shape the future of sports. We explored ways to create an inclusive environment that enables young people to drive positive change and have a voice in shaping the future of sport.
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| Maria-José Munioz at the panel 'Youth take the lead'. Photo © GIZ |
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During the conference, we proudly showcased our strong support for UNESCO's ‘Fit for Life’ initiative. By promoting physical activity, sports participation, and healthy lifestyles, ‘Fit for Life’ aims to enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities, while also addressing gender inequalities. ‘Fit for Life’ will harness the power of data, turning it into impactful interventions. It places a strong emphasis on youth leadership and will actively involve young people in driving positive change, with a regional focus on empowering communities in Africa. We are committed to contributing to this important initiative through various activities that foster equal opportunities for all.
Together, we are working towards creating a brighter and more inclusive future through the power of sports.
Further information:
» 'Fit for Life' initiative
Contact:
patrick.jannaschk-schmitz@giz.de
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| Female Empowerment matters – together with Partners at SPOBIS |
by Jens Elsner
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From 31 May to 1 June 2023, the European largest sport business event, SPOBIS Conference, took place. Important players from the sport business industry get together to exchange, discuss latest insights and initiate new projects. Thousands of participants used the chance to update themselves in digitalization, sustainability, marketing, media, and other topics. Walking through the Congress Center in Dusseldorf, there is a sense of positive energy as the sessions are progressive and dynamic, though the profile of the participants is still male-dominated.
Our lighthouse project, 'Female Future Leaders in Football' was integrated into the conference programme, and our partners Deutsche Fußball-Bund (DFB) and Volkswagen shared important impulses in female leadership, giving insights and sharing stories about pioneering initiatives. |
| Get together at the SPOBIS Conference. Photo © Volkswagen/Friso Gentsch |
| Around 50 participants listened with great interest to Eva Jacobi (DFB), who presented the 'Future Leaders in Football' approach, implemented jointly by BMZ/GIZ, DFB and Volkswagen. The aim here is to encourage and train women in particular who are aiming for or already hold managerial positions in football and who are sometimes facing social challenges in their countries. The ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) approach is well integrated into the training course. After editions in the Arabic world, this year’s edition will take place in October in Albania (for the countries of the Western Balkans). In another round of discussions, the former national player Nia Kuenzer, S4D-Ambassador, presented her thoughts about leadership responsibility in sport and life. |
| 'Sport for Development' Ambassador Nia Künzer (middle) at a panel discussion about „Female Future Leaders in Football“. Photo © Volkswagen/Friso Gentsch |
There is still a long way to go towards a more balanced gender ratio in the sports sector, but the trend is positive. The current developments in society offer a great environment for this, not only in Germany but also in the rest of the world. Positive examples such as the joint 'Future Leaders in Football' offer an excellent opportunity to have more female managers and coaches in sport. The DFB, Volkswagen and the German development cooperation will continue to work on this. The next joint FLF event will take place from 1 to 7 October 2023 in Durrës, Albania with 25 female participants from the Western Balkans region focusing on the theme ’Developing Skills to tackle Challenges in Sport and Society‘.
Further information:
» DFB news (in German)
» Volkswagen news (in German)
Contact:
jens.elsner@giz.de |
| Launch of the Global S4D Community Platform in the second half of this Year |
by Simon Franke
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| The 'Global S4D Community' will be used by ’S4D practitioners‘ worldwide. Photo © GIZ |
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One major output and aim of the Global ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) Programme is to establish a sustainably mainstreamed, interactive and global S4D network for capacity building and knowledge sharing for around 9,000 already qualified S4D practitioners from our partner countries. The network, the 'Global S4D Community', will provide a low-threshold offer of web-based further training courses and enable S4D practitioners to engage in a global practice-oriented exchange of knowledge and experience. With the skills acquired through the network, these practitioners will reach and strengthen hundreds of thousands of young people in the fields of social cohesion, participation in societal and political decision-making, gender equality and enhanced economic and professional prospects. The platform is built with the help of our technical partner ’HumHub’. For content creation we work together with CRISP e.V. and the German Sports University. The community management is handled by Yunus Sports Hub, Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and Oaks Consultancy Ltd.
The Global S4D Community will be used by ’S4D practitioners‘ worldwide. S4D practitioners are people who work as trainers, instructors, or multipliers (S4D advanced level) or those new to S4D (S4D beginners). They come from current and former GIZ S4D partner countries and have participated in analogue training courses of the GIZ S4D programmes and in public or on-demand web-seminars in the S4D Learning Lab.
The aim of the Global S4D Community is to enhance knowledge and competencies in S4D at all levels by capacity building and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, it should empower the members of the platform, to actively get engaged with each other and foster peer-to-peer learning among the trainers, instructors, and multipliers globally.
The Global S4D Community platform will be accessible on the Internet via web browser and will have the appearance of a social intranet. The launch is scheduled for 12 August 2023.
Contact:
simon.franke@giz.de |
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