THE International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) is celebrated annually on 6 April to recognize the power of sport in fostering positive change, bridging barriers, and transcending boundaries, according to the United Nations.
Leading up to the Second World Summit for Social Development in 2025, IDSDP 2025 will centre on the theme of “Social Inclusion”, emphasizing marginalized groups and issues of age, gender, and race. The initiative seeks to challenge stereotypes, promote equal opportunities, and ensure inclusive sports for all. It underscores sport’s role as a unifying force that fosters equity, breaks down prejudices, and drives positive change worldwide.
All countries worldwide host various sports competitions based on their popular sports. People support athletes regardless of nationality or race. Sports are free from discrimination, as competitions are driven by genuine sportsmanship rather than politics, religion, or nationality.
Sports can transform society and improve people’s livelihoods. Sporting events that incorporate social activities are more likely to succeed. Successfully organizing sports events can bring comfort to fans and help resolve societal disputes. Sports have the power to turn enemies into friends. Indeed, sports serve as a universal form of diplomacy.
Currently, countries around the world utilize sports as a means to promote development and peace for all. This goal is among the most noble. Through social activities and participation, sports can help shape the world into a more peaceful and developed place. Although some may see it as a magical solution, the current global situation reflects the effectiveness of sports in fostering positive change. Everybody is inspired to the restoration of peace in their countries. Fraternity based on sports activities can shape the nation with fruits of peace for all. Consequently, it is not difficult to implement development projects if the country can restore durable peace.
As various ethnicities have been facing internal conflict for many years, Myanmar has to choose an option to enhance the influence of its esteemed athletes to support the peace process. In this regard, the nation’s renowned sports figures should actively engage in peacemaking initiatives to help restore lasting peace as a valuable gift for future generations. All stakeholders, including athletes, must work together to pave the way for reconciliation and sustainable peace. Through collaborative efforts and the exchange of best practices, the domestic sporting community should play a significant role in fostering peace and national development.
