Sport As A Tool

Sport is a powerful, simple, and universal means to stimulate real change among survivors of GBV in conflict and post-conflict areas. Sport programmes are universally applicable because they are based mainly on supportive, non-competitive elements and can consist of modules adapted according to the particular needs of the participants.Sport is an international language. “Its ability to cross cultures enables sport-related programmes to bridge social and ethnic divides.”[78] Sport tackles the development of participants on numerous levels: physical, cognitive, emotional, and social. It is a low-cost, high-impact tool for development. Well-designed sport programmes offer a safe and neutral environment.

On an individual level and with the help of sport survivors of GBV:

•  learn to manage exclusion and dominance;
•  control emotions and share power, space, and ideas with others;
•  express unacceptable feelings in acceptable ways;
•  cope with emotional traumas and instability;
•  become re-sensitized to others’ needs;
•  re-learn structure as it requires dedication, discipline, responsibility to self and others, and adherence to a set of rules of conduct and behaviour;
•  get theopportunity to play and develop healthy peer relationships after violence and isolation;
•  form friendships and intensify peer networks and to engage in more frequent and meaningful contact with peers;
•  improve communication, cooperation, and negotiation skills on and off the playing field; and
•  obtain a valuable sense of attachment as it provides girls with “their own space,” both physically and emotionally.

On a community level, sport:

•  brings communities together and generates dialogue, uniting coaches, parents, community leaders, and team members in the pursuit of a common goal.
•  presents no political undertones. “As a vehicle for feelings, it is particularly suited for reflecting, creating, and spreading the atmosphere of peace.”[79]