The General Assembly of the United Nations recently passed a resolution declaring May 25 as World Football Day. This day marks the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament held during the 1924 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, where teams from all regions participated. The resolution, introduced by Libya’s permanent representative to the UN, Taher M. El-Sonni, was backed by over 160 countries in the 193-member General Assembly.
Football, also known as soccer, is the world’s most widely played and followed sport, with its universal appeal transcending national, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries. It brings people together for both recreation and competition regardless of age or location. El-Sonni emphasized this point while introducing the resolution.
Dennis Francis, president of the General Assembly, expressed approval of the resolution by acknowledging that football promotes values such as camaraderie, teamwork, fair play, and tolerance. He recognized sports’ role in fostering peace and solidarity across the globe. This recognition highlights sports’ positive impact on society and underscores their significance in promoting unity and social harmony.
