Sports as a Tool for Fighting Violence
Our project, which aimed to find solutions to the increasing violence across Europe by using the unifying power of sport, has been successfully implemented.
Sport was positioned as a tool to strengthen unity, increase solidarity, and leave positive impacts on young people, countering factors that fuel violence such as social inequality, unemployment, and ethnic conflicts.
Project Objectives
Our project aimed to prevent violence and break down social pressures by raising awareness among young people through sport. The following objectives were achieved:
Raising Awareness: The real causes and consequences of violence were explained, encouraging a conscious approach in society.
Breaking Down Stereotypes: Social pressures and preconceived notions were combated by creating a community based on equality, respect, and tolerance.
Communication Skills: Young people’s ability to communicate effectively and understand different perspectives was improved.
Implementation and Participant Profile
Our youth exchange program took place in Herne, Germany, between July 22-30, 2025.
Participating Countries: Young people and group leaders from Germany, Turkey, Hungary, Greece, and North Macedonia actively participated.
Inclusion: Our project hosted a total of 42 participants, including young people with limited opportunities due to economic, geographical, or social barriers. This diversity created a fertile ground for intercultural dialogue.
What We Did:
During the project, which utilized non-formal education methods, the following activities were carried out:
Sports and Creativity: Forgotten sports were rediscovered, and new “imaginary sports” were designed in teams, combining teamwork and physical activity.
Expert Contributions: Workshops were held with a psychologist on anger management and the effects of violence on mental health; experiences of sports professionals were shared.
Interactive Workshops: Theatre performances on the role of sport in preventing violence, conflict resolution workshops, and city exploration activities with local people were conducted.
Team Challenges: Values such as fair play, respect, and cooperation were emphasized through volleyball, tug-of-war, and Olympic-style games.
Cultural Exchange: Cultural evenings were organized to introduce the traditions, music, and cuisines of the participating countries, fostering mutual understanding.
Looking to the Future
At the end of the project, participants evaluated their own behavior through a SWOT analysis and developed new ideas for future projects aimed at preventing violence. The program concluded with a Youthpass certificate ceremony documenting the participants’ teamwork, conflict resolution, and leadership skills.
Feedback from our young people showed that balancing sports with in-depth thinking sessions made this project a transformative experience for them.
