LocationsSCORING GOALS, BREAKING CHAINS: FOOTBALL’S FIGHT FOR INCLUSION AND EMPOWERMENT
November 13, 2023
The sun was shining brightly on a modest football pitch in Pristina where a “Special Olympics” was taking place, a wholesome, one-of-a-kind event to mark “Poverty Eradication Week”.
112 children and young people from different social backgrounds and ethnic communities, including youth with disabilities and special needs, played football, the game that they love, in the presence of family and friends. This was the final event, following seven smaller tournaments held in seven municipalities in Kosovo throughout the year. Indeed, everyone was already a winner.
This inspiring event was made possible by Special Olympics Kosovo with the support of UNDP Kosovo and UNFPA Kosovo, as part of the regional project "Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality, and Trust”. The opening was moderated by two youngsters, part of the groups, who also kicked off the tournament.
The UN Development Coordinator in Kosovo, Arnhild Spence, was one of the first speakers. She expressed her joy and gratitude for being part of this inspiring event, and she thanked all participants for contributing to inclusiveness and youth empowerment in Kosovo.
