Despite creating rivalries around the world, sport can be a great way of bringing people together. Whatever is going on—disputes between countries, sometimes even war—sport has often played a role in bringing about peace. This is why, on April 6th every year, there is the UN-recognized International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.

What Is International Day of Sport for Development and Peace?

Established in 2013 by the United Nations, which chose April 6th as the official day, it is also the anniversary of the first day of the original Olympic Games in 1896. It has been designated a day so that people can acknowledge the importance of sport in people’s lives around the world. It is great for human connection, uniting people from all nationalities both professionally and as a pastime.

Sport promotes so much more than this; it is also a way of promoting fairness, mutual respect, and equality. Even the watching of sport unites people from different backgrounds, so it has a lot to do with bringing about peace. Much has been said about rivalries in sport, but even the fiercest rivals have inspiring moments of overcoming difficulties together.

Sport has even played a role in overcoming pandemics, bringing life back to normal, restoring some sense of how life should be, and uniting people once again. So, the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace can do a lot of good, and it is only right that we observe it in the way it deserves. April 6th is the official day, but celebrations are encouraged in the week leading up to it as well.

One of the most famous instances of how sport can bring peace was on Christmas Day 1914. It was during World War I that British and German troops laid down their weapons for a match in No Man’s Land.

How To Observe International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

One of the best ways to observe it is by playing sport. Remember the good it has done in your life and share this online. The hashtags #OnlyTogether and #SportDay are useful for spreading the word and seeing how the world is observing the day.

Why not try to organize a sporting event for those who are underprivileged and see how rewarding it can be for others to take part? Thinking of a way to raise money for sports-related charities can be rewarding in many ways, especially since it is in the name of peace.

It can also be a good time to commit to a new health goal. When we neglect this side of our lives, we open ourselves up to health issues. Why not download a health tracker app, set some goals, and make a plan for getting into shape? Use April 6th as an incentive, but don’t delay something that can be done today.

All in all, International Day of Sport for Development and Peace is an important day, and with so many people around the world who are better off because of it, it deserves to be acknowledged.