UN Proclaims May 25 As World Football Day
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly has approved May 25 as ‘World Football Day’.
Libya’s U.N. Ambassador Taher El-Sonni introduced the resolution, urging members to consider “unparalleled position” in the world of sports.
“Football serves as a universal language spoken across the globe, cutting across national, cultural and socioeconomic barriers,” he said, adding the game offers “a pivotal platform” for championing gender equality and social inclusion.
“A common ground where individuals from varying backgrounds converge, promoting mutual understanding, tolerance, respect and solidarity,” he said.
The day marks the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament, which took place on May 25, 1924 at the summer Olympic Games, held in Paris.
UN members are enjoined to support football and other sports as a tool to promote peace, development and the empowerment of women and girls.
