The UN refugee agency’s ‘Gamechanging Team’ powerfully illustrates the potential unleashed when displaced individuals, forced to flee their homes through no fault of their own, find safety, opportunity, and a welcoming environment.
This elite squad comprises professional footballers from around the globe whose lives have been shaped by forced displacement, persecution, or war.
“This summer marks the biggest World Cup ever. It is an ideal moment for UNHCR’s Gamechanging Team to send a message of hope to fans all over the world,” stated UNHCR chief Barham Salih.
The team is captained by Alphonso Davies, a former refugee, Bayern Munich player, and Canadian national team captain. Born in Ghana after his parents escaped war in Liberia, Davies later resettled in Canada.
Amidst global conflict, with over 117 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, Davies remarked, “we show what is possible when kids find safety and opportunity. In times like these, I hope we can bring hope and a belief that no matter how hard the road is, you can always overcome it.” Davies also serves as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador.
World Football Day
The team also features Real Madrid players Eduardo Camavinga, who was born in Angola during its civil war, and Antonio Rüdiger, whose parents fled conflict in Sierra Leone.
This announcement coincides with the UN’s official World Football Day on May 25.
“Every child deserves the chance to grow, to dream and to succeed,” said Mr. Rüdiger.
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric commented during his daily briefing from New York, “It highlights the power of football to be more than a game for young refugees; it can be healing, it can bring hope, it can bring belonging, it also has the power to change lives.”
Healing Power of Sport
Children and youth are particularly vulnerable during displacement caused by war, violence, and persecution. Many face separation from families, trauma, and abuse.
For young refugees and their communities, sports like football offer a crucial healing role, enhancing mental and physical well-being, fostering inclusion, and supporting development.
“Each team member has overcome adversity to achieve their dreams, and they are a powerful reminder of just what young, displaced people can achieve when they find safety and are given opportunities,” affirmed Mr. Salih.
Kick-off at UN Headquarters
In anticipation of World Football Day and the World Cup, diplomats and UN staff will participate in a special knockout tournament on the iconic North Lawn at UN Headquarters in New York. The event is scheduled for Tuesday.
Ambassadors, former football players, and UN staff, including the President of the General Assembly, will set aside national loyalties to compete under regional groups.
With New York experiencing a record heatwave and temperatures nearing 40°C, UN News hopes participants can maintain their composure in honor of the ‘beautiful game’.
