The methodology developed by the Monegasque NGO to promote peace through sport has been digitized.
A mobile application now at the fingertips of educators the world over.
February 2018.
Just inaugurated President of Liberia (on the lawn of a stadium, in Monrovia), George Weah reserves his first official visit for France.
With an equivocal message.
“When the war came to Liberia, thanks to sport, we were able to disarm the young child soldiers and, thanks to sport, Liberia was able to reach a peace agreement (…). I left the streets because I had the opportunity to play sport, and today I’m President of the Republic thanks to sport.”
As an aside, the former AS Monaco striker and 1995 Ballon d’Or winner discussed with his French counterpart the priority areas of education and health in Africa, but insisted on the importance of sport in promoting dialogue, inculcating respect and thus working towards peace.
At least, political stability.
On the eve of the soccer World Cup in Russia, Emmanuel Macron will revisit the words of “Mister George”.
“He told me that when we gave balloons to these young people, they laid down their arms.”
“A UNIVERSAL APPEAL
Since its creation in Monaco in 2007, Peace and Sport has never stopped proclaiming that peace through sport is not a utopian dream.
Tried and tested, recognized and put down on paper, the NGO’s method for promoting dialogue and inclusion in conflict zones has just reached a milestone in its democratization, as it is now accessible on a simple smartphone thanks to the “Peace and Sport x MyCoach” application.
This digitalization is particularly timely in these times of health crisis and limited physical interaction, and opens up a whole new world of possibilities for the association’s educators and ambassadors, who preach the good word in the field.
Re-elected president of the World Olympians Association in October, Peace and Sport president and founder Joël Bouzou presents this revolutionary tool as an emancipator, a tension-softener that fits in one hand but spans the planet.
“We first suggested our methodology seven years ago, with a guide to good practice, an old-fashioned paper document to photocopy or download. It was a laudable effort, but it had only a limited impact. The “Peace and Sport x MyCoach” app opens all doors thanks to its universal appeal. The app is intuitive and accessible everywhere, to everyone, even in refugee camps, war zones and areas of religious and ethnic conflict.”
A humanist solution that reinforces Monaco’s soft power in this area.
In the spring, Prince Albert II, who was confined to his home, took to social networking sites to remind everyone of the urgent need to remain united, particularly through sport, in these troubled times.
“Using sport to protect our planet and strengthen our bonds with each other is a huge responsibility we owe to our children and future generations.” And the future is now.