Sport has the power to change the world; it is a fundamental right, a powerful tool to strengthen social ties and promote sustainable development and peace and well as solidarity, and respect. Through our unique individual skills and collective power, we can come together and share creative ways to improve our health and well-being through sport and physical activity – even from the confines of our own homes.

Sport can cross boundaries, defy stereotypes, improve our physical and emotional health, and inspire hope across nations, but we will only be able to get back to this, if we recover resiliently and help end the pandemic by helping ensure everyone is protected from COVID-19. 

The 2021 International Day of Sport for Development and Peace messaging aims to:

• Reaffirm the place of sport in the recovery from the pandemic and beyond 
• Foster equity, solidarity, community and team spirit in response to the pandemic
• Encourage healthy habits through physical activity and building mental strength
• Inspire hope through sporting analogies