DOHA: At the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) 2024 held in Doha, the role of sports in protecting health during armed conflict took centre stage. The summit was organised by Qatar Foundation in Qatar recently.
A pivotal resolution led by Qatar at the 77th World Health Assembly emphasised leveraging sports events to integrate health promotion and protection into fragile contexts.
This move highlights the growing recognition of sports as a catalyst for fostering resilience, well-being and inclusivity amidst global challenges.
The resolution, titled ‘Strengthening Health and Well-Being through Sport Events,’ underscores the transformative power of sports to transcend boundaries, promote dialogue, and enhance human rights.
By integrating health considerations into all levels of sports events, it seeks to address physical and mental health needs, especially in conflict-affected areas.
A key panel at WISH 2024 brought together global health experts, policymakers, and athletes to discuss practical ways sports can mitigate the health impacts of conflict.
Panellists explored successful initiatives, including grassroots interventions by the Generation Amazing Foundation, which demonstrated tangible outcomes in promoting peace and reducing stress in communities under strain.
Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted how sports can prevent non-communicable diseases and foster mental well-being in fragile environments.
The Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health showcased the nation’s commitment to health-focused sports policies and its leadership in global health diplomacy, reinforcing the objectives of the WHA77 resolution.
Athletes from conflict-affected regions shared firsthand experiences of how sports provided a sense of purpose and cohesion amidst turmoil. Their stories underscored the resilience-building and unifying potential of sports, which extend beyond physical health to address psychological recovery and community empowerment.
While challenges such as resource limitations and cultural sensitivities remain, the discussions at WISH 2024 highlighted the importance of multisectoral collaboration. Governments, NGOs, sports organisations and local communities must work together to scale innovative sports-based health initiatives.
Qatar’s leadership and the dialogue at WISH 2024 reflect a broader vision: to position sports as a key tool for health promotion, even in the world’s most vulnerable settings.
By aligning global strategies with the principles outlined in the WHA77 resolution, the summit aims to inspire actionable solutions for a healthier, more resilient future.
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