While sports serve various roles in society, including promoting national identity, acting as an instrument of recognition and propaganda, facilitating education, and even social control, its potential as a tool for conflict resolution is often limited. While sports events can sometimes exacerbate tensions and contribute to conflicts between nations, they are rarely the primary means of resolving political disputes.
The power of sports in the international arena is undeniable, with leaders of international sports organizations holding significant influence. For instance, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the head of world football can interact with political leaders and impact decisions. Sporting events, such as the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup, also have the potential to influence the geopolitical standing of nations.
However, despite the ability of sports to bring people together and foster understanding, many political issues are typically addressed through traditional diplomatic channels rather than sports. While there are instances where sports have played a role in diplomacy, their influence on conflict resolution is often indirect.
The expenses incurred by governments for hosting major sporting events highlight the significance of sports as a tool for international recognition and power projection. Nevertheless, for sports to be an effective tool for conflict resolution, it would require a more intentional and coordinated effort from the international community. The potential is there, but its realization would demand a strategic and diplomatic approach that goes beyond the scope of individual sports events.
