The Role of Sport in Achieving Peace in the Arab Region in Light of Internal and Regional Conflicts

International Scientific-Practical Conference: “Sport – way to peace between nations”

Ministry of Sport of the Russian Federation, “Russian State University of Physical Education, Sport, Youth and Tourism” – Moscow, Russia, November 18–19, 2015

Authors: Prof. Dr. Alaa El-Din Mohamed Aliwa & Dr. Hamada Eid Nawar Alantably

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Study Overview

This study aimed to examine the role of sport in fostering peace within the Arab region amidst ongoing internal and regional conflicts. The research explored several key themes, including the nature of Arab conflicts, factors influencing their emergence, the root causes of these conflicts, the relationship between sport and social systems, the intersection of sport and politics, and the potential of “sports diplomacy” in resolving conflicts.

Methodology

The researchers utilized a descriptive analytical approach, which involves collecting, categorizing, and analyzing data to interpret the relationship between the study variables (internal and regional Arab conflicts versus the role of sport in achieving peace). This was achieved by reviewing relevant literature, theoretical and field research, and analyzing regional and international case studies.

Key Conclusions

Support for Domestic Policy: Sport can support the domestic policies of Arab nations by countering sectarian, ethnic, doctrinal, and tribal conflicts. This is achieved by promoting volunteer work in sports and fostering youth engagement in teams that teach leadership and followership, while instilling the values of equality and equal opportunity—which are fundamental to sports practice.

National Identity: Sport reinforces cohesion, national unity, and national identity.

Sports Diplomacy: Sports diplomacy plays a vital and effective role in resolving problems between conflicting parties, whether within a single nation or between warring countries and peoples. Sport acts as a neutral, suitable medium that softens the intensity of conflicts and serves as a natural gateway for international meetings.

Conflict Transformation: Sport possesses the unique ability to transcend the factors of conflict and transform them into healthy, honorable competition.