As the Principality of Monaco celebrates the 20th anniversary of H.S.H. Prince Albert II’s reign, Peace and Sport pays tribute to a visionary Sovereign whose unwavering commitment to sport and its role in society has shaped our Organization since its inception.
Just two years after ascending the throne, H.S.H. Prince Albert II was one of the key architects behind the creation of Peace and Sport. His vision was a major source of inspiration for the Organization’s mission. A distinguished athlete who participated in five editions of the Winter Olympic Games, H.S.H. Prince Albert II has personally experienced the unifying and educational power of sport. His journey as an Olympian has fostered a deep understanding of sport’s ability to bring people together beyond their differences.
The Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II has never been merely symbolic. It reflects a strong personal and institutional commitment, driven by a profound belief: sport is a powerful tool for dialogue, education, and peace. His direct involvement in many initiatives led by Peace and Sport is a testament to this dedication.
Each year, His participation in the #WhiteCard campaign helps amplify the message behind this symbolic gesture, setting an example for other Heads of State and global leaders. Internationally, His engagement strengthens ties with the highest authorities in Peace and Sport’s partner countries, such as Colombia and Saudi Arabia. Within the Principality, He takes a leading role in high-impact symbolic actions such as the Peace Walk organized during the Peace and Sport International Forum in December 2024.
As a host of prestigious sporting events, the Principality also plays a central role in promoting the educational value of sport on the international stage—particularly through the work of the Group of Friends of Sport at the United Nations headquarters and by taking the lead in negotiations for the adoption of Olympic Truce resolutions. This commitment is further reflected in the designation of Monaco as the World Capital of Sport for 2025. It is within this unique ecosystem—bolstered by the Principality’s neutrality and the humanist vision of its Sovereign—that Peace and Sport has flourished, using sport as a tool for diplomacy, uniting global leaders, and operating in numerous contexts affected by violence and instability.
The unwavering support of H.S.H. Prince Albert II is a strategic asset for our Organization. It enables us to fully play our unique role in the sport-for-development-and-peace sector: that of a bridge between grassroots actors and international decision-makers. This position is based on extensive fieldwork experience, close to the communities, and a broad network of partners within both sports organizations and public institutions.
As we continue our mission to make sport a driver of social transformation, the inspiring example of H.S.H. Prince Albert II continues to guide our actions. His visionary commitment reminds us that peace cannot simply be declared—it must be built patiently through education and dialogue, values that sport powerfully embodies. With Him by our side, Peace and Sport will pursue its mission more than ever, using sport as a tool to foster a more inclusive, fair, and peaceful world.
Photo credits – Palais Princier
