On the eve of World Refugee Day, Peace and Sport and the Permanent Mission of Monaco to the United Nations co-hosted a special event “Speak your peace – Refugees’ inclusion through sport: from screen to reality” providing an international platform to highlight the transformative role sport plays in protecting, empowering, and integrating forcibly displaced people worldwide.
With more than 122 million people currently displaced, the event came at a critical time to reaffirm how sport provides far more than recreation. It fosters well-being, supports education, and rebuilds communities torn apart by conflict or crisis.
A central moment of the event was the screening of “The Flame of Peace”, a documentary produced by Monaco Info in collaboration with Peace and Sport. Through the voices of educators, leaders, young people and Champions for Peace, the documentary illustrates how sport can build bridges, bring back dignity, and give hope—even in the most challenging settings.
Following the screening, a panel discussion with inspiring personalities brought concrete and personal insights on the impact of sport on individuals and communities.
Ali Hussein, a Syrian refugee, shared his moving journey from a young civil engineering student forced to flee his country, to becoming a mentor and Kickboxing coach in the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan. Through the “Live Together program”—implemented by Peace and Sport with support from Monaco’s International Cooperation—Ali spent over six years guiding and empowering refugee youth. Now resettled in the United States with his family, he is continuing his education and remains a symbol of resilience and dedication.
Drawing from her own journey Marlène Nidecker, Taekwondo Olympic medallist and representative of the Champions for Peace Club, reaffirmed athletes’ importance as powerful role models—motivating educators, guiding youth on the field, and inspiring entire communities. She highlighted athletes’ ability to use their visibility platforms to advocate for social change and to influence policymakers to invest in peace-through-sport initiatives.
As the world reflects on the plight of refugees, the event in New York served as a resounding affirmation of what is possible when sport is used not only as recreation or performance but as a catalyst for protection, inclusion, and peace.
The event also contributed to reaffirm the Monaco’s longstanding commitment in championing the role of sport as a driver of peace and inclusion on the international stage. The Principality’s leadership on this front is also reflected in its role as co-chair of the United Nations “Group of Friends of Sport” and its designation as the World Sports Capital for 2025.
