The contribution of the Olympic Movement to the peace-building process

Abstract

The project deals with the role of sport and in particular the Olympic Movement in building peaceful relationships among communities, social groups and people in general. In the following pages there will be an analysis of peace as a term that existed even in antiquity and was linked to the absence of armed conflict. The purpose of this thesis is to outline and distinguish the conventional concept of peace until the end of World War II with the contemporary concept of peace which during and after the Cold War was linked to development, sustainability, equity and justice. Therefore, the concept of peacebuilding will be examined in the realm of reconciliation among divided societies. Sport has been recognised by scholars and international entities of a governmental and non-governmental nature as a very important tool for promoting social values such as friendship, equality, respect and international understanding. It also had and still has the reputation for building relationships among people. During the Cold War it was considered as a form for bringing nations together that traditionally were enemies. This concept has move on to another dimension since peace was re-defined the last decades. In addition, after examining the history of the relation between sport and peace, the concept of the new movement of Sport for Development and Peace will be discussed as well as the entities that are involved and conduct such programs. Furthermore, several case studies of peacebuilding projects will be discussed in terms of the organization, goals, purpose and impact towards the targeting group. Finally, after analyzing all the information about sport for development and peace, there will be an attempt to evaluate these programs and try to identify the impact they have on the people who suffer from post-war situations or even live in current war zone areas.