The discussion will focus on the promotion of peace through sport and the role of athletes in achieving this goal. 'Peace and Sport,' and its '110 Champions for Peace', represented by Didier Drogba and Siya Kolisi, launched an important dialogue on 4 April on the impact of sport and athletes in promoting peace. Through the Special Olympics, they are using sport to promote inclusivity.

Joel Bouzou, President and Founder of 'Peace and Sport', said:  "Peace and Sport has pioneered the promotion of peace values through sport over the past 15 years, reaching millions of people on social networks with the #WhiteCard campaign.

"It is our duty to amplify this message of peace in a challenging geopolitical context. The world of sport has a very important role to play, and Champions for Peace are the best ambassadors to promote initiatives for peaceful coexistence."

Sport and its champions play a central role in peace education by imparting skills and values, empowering women and youth for equality and inclusion, fostering leadership and building coalitions to prevent extreme violence and ensure security.

Gabriela Ramos, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences, said "Sport is a powerful catalyst for social change and for building peaceful societies. At UNESCO, through the Fit for Life sports flagship, we recognise the central role of sport and athletes in promoting inclusive development." 

Didier Drogba, Vice President for Peace and Sport, commented; "We are looking for more support and cohesion within the world of sport to reinforce the message of 'Peace Through Sport.' This is an important call, I have personally witnessed what athletes and sport can do." 

Siya Kolisi, Champion for Peace, said, "As Champions, we must use our influence in a positive way and constantly promote the universal values of peace in order to bring young people together and enable everyone to live together despite our differences."

The "Champions for Peace" collective has been a cornerstone of 'Peace and Sport' since its inception in 2009, aiming to raise awareness and promote the values of peace through sport.

Massomah Ali Zada, Chef de Mission for the Refugee Olympic Team Paris 2024, said: "As a champion who was forced to leave my country, sport has offered me much more than medals, giving me a sense of integration into society. I'm proud to carry the message of sport for inclusion and mutual understanding."

Millions of people are taking part in 'Peace and Sport's' '#WhiteCard Campaign', symbolising the positive impact of sport. 'Champions For Peace' is launching the '#WhiteCard Challenge,' spelling out "Peace" with their hands to amplify the message, especially as Paris 2024 approaches. Athletes and institutions are encouraged to join in to reach younger generations with a message of peace.