BWF Signs Sport for Refugees Coalition Joint Statement

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has joined over 170 organisations as a signatory to the Sport for Refugees Coalition Joint Statement, reaffirming our commitment to supporting refugees and host communities through the power of badminton.

With forced displacement now surpassing 120 million people globally, and humanitarian funding under increasing pressure, it is more important than ever to recognise sport as an accessible, scalable, and evidence-based tool that supports wellbeing, protection, social inclusion, and community resilience.

In December 2025, UNHCR will host the Global Refugee Forum (GRF) which will be attended by several governments and world leaders. The Sport for Refugees Coalition is calling for stronger global action. The joint statement urges:

• Greater recognition and investment in sport within displacement contexts
• Inclusion and empowerment of refugee-led and locally led organisations
• Increased leadership and representation from low- and middle-income countries
• Integration of sport into national and local refugee response frameworks

Key Points to Note

Over 120 million people are currently forcibly displaced worldwide.

Sport remains a low-cost, scalable, evidence-based approach for wellbeing and protection.

Since the 2023 GRF, Coalition members have contributed to:

• 529,000+ people reached through sport and play-based initiatives
• 11,000+ trained coaches delivering safe and inclusive programmes
• 160+ sport spaces established or refurbished
• Pledge commitments implemented across 92+ countries

The Coalition is co-convened by UNHCR, the Olympic Refuge Foundation, and the Scort Foundation, alongside a diverse network of global partners.

Opportunities for BWF Member Associations

Member Associations who are interested in supporting refugee related activities in their country, or who require further information on the joint statement or potential engagement opportunities are encouraged to contact John Shearer, Deputy Director Continental & Membership Development ([email protected]).