ICSSPE Advocates for Sport and Health Initiatives at UNESCO Events in Paris

Claire Boursier, a member of ICSSPE's Development Committee and representative from the University Paris Nanterre, attended on behalf of ICSSPE key global forums and conferences aimed at promoting the intersection of sport, health, and social development in Paris. ICSSPE was invited to attend these events as a member of the Intergovernmental Committee for Physical Education and Sport (CIGEPS) from UNESCO.

UNESCO’s “Change the Game” Partner Forum

On the 23th of July, ICSSPE attended the "Change the Game" Partner Forum held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Organized by UNESCO, the forum highlighted the social impacts of investments in sport policies and programs. A major focus of the event was the launch of UNESCO’s “Social Impact of Sport Report” 2024, setting the stage for in-depth discussions on the importance of investing in sport through people, infrastructure, and innovation.

Key sessions included:

• Social Impact of Sport: Emphasizing the tangible and intangible benefits of sport investments and the need for rigorous impact measurement and dissemination.
• Investing in People: Highlighting the empowerment of athletes, coaches, PE teachers, and policy makers through education and training, showcasing sport as a tool for social transformation.
• Investing in Infrastructures: Discussing the importance of accessible, community-centric sports infrastructure for fostering participation and inclusion.
• Innovating Investments: Exploring new financial tools and opportunities to maximize the social returns on sport investments.

ICSSPE presented its participation in the “Sport and Health Capacity Development Initiative” (SHCDI), a global project led by the IOC and WHO. This initiative aims to strengthen global health promotion and physical activity through tailored training sessions for health and sport professionals. 

UNESCO “Change the Game” Ministerial Forum

ICSSPE also participated in the UNESCO “Change the Game” Ministerial Forum, also held at UNESCO Headquarters, on the 24th of July. This event gathered high-level sport policymakers, government representatives, and civil society to discuss the sustainable social impacts of sport and physical activity.

Key sessions included:

• Quality Physical Education and Sport for Sustainable Social Legacies: Discussing evidence-based policies and practices to leverage sport for health, gender equality, and inclusion.
• Fighting Racism, Discrimination, and Hate Speech: Highlighting global campaigns and programs to combat racism and promote mutual respect through sport.
• Gender Equality in and through Sports: Addressing the empowerment of girls and women in sport, showcasing initiatives like the African Strategy 2018-2028.
• Safe and Equal Sport: Emphasizing the need for accessible, safe environments for all stakeholders, and the importance of international cooperation to implement inclusive sports practices.

Paris 2024 International Olympic Education, Sport, and Peace Conference

On the 25th and 26th of July, 2024, ICSSPE attended yet another event promoted by UNESCO, the “Paris 2024 International Olympic Education, Sport, and Peace Conference”. This event, held at the Mayor’s Office Paris VII and the Catholic University of Paris, was organized by several Pierre de Coubertin Committees and other international bodies under the patronage of UNESCO and the International Olympic Academy.

The conference focused on youth, Africa, and Sport and Peace initiatives, discussing how Olympic and universal values can contribute to global peace and community development. Key discussions included:

• Olympic Education and Values for Development & Peace: Featuring the Olympic Values Education Programme and initiatives supporting refugees.
• Promotion of Olympism in Business: Highlighting how Olympism can advance sustainable development.
• Dialogue with Youth Leaders and Ministers: Engaging in debates on youth, mental health, and the role of sport in fostering collaboration and inclusion.

Through these significant engagements, Claire Boursier has showcased ICSSPE’s commitment to integrating sport and health for global social development. Her contributions reflect ICSSPE’s dedication to fostering international cooperation and promoting sustainable sport initiatives.