In Action: Teaming Up to Empower Refugee and Stateless Children in Montenegro through Sport

In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and support, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in Montenegro joined forces with the Football Association of Montenegro (FAM) part of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and the Montenegrin Olympic Committee to organize two events focused on promoting the inclusion and protection of refugee and stateless children through the unifying power of sport.

These initiatives underscore the transformative power of sport in fostering community cohesion, inclusion and psychological wellbeing.

UNHCR and FAM: A Unified Field for Refugee Inclusion 

On 9 June, for the Montenegro-Georgia football match, UNHCR and the FAM created the opportunity for 26 refugee children and children at risk of statelessness to walk onto the football field with the players for the national anthems, right before the kick-off. 

"This is a shining example of how sport can be a powerful tool for inclusion and protection," says Jean-Yves Bouchardy, Representative to Montenegro. "Having refugee children and children at risk of statelessness onto the field alongside the national players sends a strong message about their place in our society.”

This heartwarming initiative aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by these children while promoting their inclusion in the local community through the unifying language of sport. “We are deeply grateful to the FAM and the legendary Dejan Savicevic for their unwavering support and commitment to this cause,” adds Jean-Yves.

Dejan Savicevic, President of the Football Association and a celebrated former Associazione Calcio (AC) Milan midfielder, further emphasized the role of sport in fostering unity and protection for vulnerable communities. "Football and sport in general are a strong tool in the fight for inclusion in society. We believe that all people deserve respect, dignity, and a chance. In partnership with UNHCR in Montenegro, we hope to maintain the positive narrative in the country about refugees and help them achieve their dreams."

There were around 6,000 people at the stadium, with more tuning in from their homes to watch the match broadcasted on national TV. “For the children, stepping onto the field with the football players and watching the game from the front rows afterwards was an unforgettable experience and a moment of immense joy,” shares Mensur Bajramspahic, Assistant Communications Officer. “The experience – further witness by such a wide audience – not only allowed the refugee and stateless children to feel a sense of belonging, but further strengthened our advocacy efforts for inclusion.”

UNHCR and the Olympic Committee of Montenegro: Celebrating Unity and Resilience

In collaboration with the Capital City Podgorica, UNHCR and the Olympic Committee of Montenegro organized a joint celebration for Olympic Day and World Refugee Day on 23 June. The event combined the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect with the focus on solidarity with refugees, and provided a platform for refugee children and children at risk of statelessness to connect with their peers in Montenegro.

The children engaged in a variety of sport activities, took quizzes about the Olympic values, and participated in fun games designed to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle. “This day reminds us of the power of sport to unite us, to inspire us, and to encourage us to live better lives,” remarks Dušan Simonovic, President of the Montenegrin Olympic Committee. “Sport teaches us how to excel in everything we do, how to overcome obstacles, and how to always play fairly.”

The day further underscored the role of sport as a significant contributor to peacebuilding and inclusion into new communities. “Beyond celebrating sport, the participation of displaced children and children at risk of statelessness also testifies to the joint and ongoing efforts of key actors in Montenegro in building a more inclusive society,” stresses Jean-Yves. “This initiative is a great example of how sport can be a powerful tool for the inclusion and protection of displaced children and children at risk of statelessness.”

Building an Inclusive Future for Children through Sport: More Than a Game

These efforts are aligned with UNHCR's borader Sport Strategy 2022-2026 – “More than a Game” which leverages the power of sport to enhance the protection and empowerment of forcibly displaced people, as well as those at risk of statelessness. The Sport for Protection Approach, a key component of the strategy, uses sport to create safe spaces, build resilience, and promote psychological wellbeing. Additionally, the power of sport for development and peace is highlighted, aiming to include children into social structures, promote gender equality, and support youth leadership and development.

The collaboration between UNHCR, the FAM and the Montenegrin Olympic Committee exemplifies the positive impact of strategic partnerships in enhancing the lives of the children we work with and for. These events not only celebrate sport, but also stand as a testament to the collective efforts in building a more inclusive society.

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Leverage UNHCR’s global Sport Strategy, – “More than a Game” to promote the inclusion and protection of the people we work with and for through sport and continue to champion their rights and wellbeing; together, we can make a difference in their lives through the transformative power of sport.