Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
Uniting communities through football
Both male and female refugees were integrated into teams alongside local players, demonstrating how football can build deeper connections between refugees and the communities welcoming them.
The tournament not only enabled the refugee players to represent their host countries but also gave them an international stage to showcase their talents and share their stories.
For Latvia’s captain Oleh Lazyrka, leading his team to victory was a special moment:
“Every sport helps refugees, but football, in particular, because when we play it, we feel united, it’s like a big family.”
Following the final match, UEFA and UNHCR hosted a high-level panel discussion on “Refugee Inclusion Through Sport.”
Moderated by Pedro Pinto, key speakers included UNHCR High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, UEFA Vice-President Laura McAllister and Célia Šašić, EURO 2024 and Team Germany ambassador, and Mary Edonga, Unity EURO Cup 2024 Team Northern Ireland refugee player.
Unity Euro Cup – Panel discussion
Football plays a great role in my life. I fled South Sudan because there is a civil war and came to Northern Ireland. It was a long and stressful journey. In Northern Ireland, I started playing football and it was a life-changing. When I play football, I’m just happy, I met new people, I learnt a new language and different cultures. It’s like a big family.
Mary Edonga, Unity EURO Cup 2024 Team Northern Ireland refugee player
The Unity EURO Cup
Organised by UEFA in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Unity EURO Cup brings together refugees and local players from host communities to promote social inclusion through football.
It was established as part of our Football Sustainability Strategy 2030 and also reflects the UNHCR Sport Strategy – More than a Game – which underscores the role that sport can play in improving the lives of displaced and stateless people.
Find out more
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Publish date : 2024-10-09 17:01:00
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