UNITAR Online Catalogue
Workshop on Sports Diplomacy
Multilateral Diplomacy
Background
Sports diplomacy has emerged as a powerful tool for fostering international relationships, promoting cultural
understanding, and advancing socio-economic development. Through the universal language of sports,
nations can build bridges, resolve conflicts, and enhance mutual respect. For Saudi Arabia, a nation with a
rich cultural heritage and an ambitious vision for the future, leveraging sports diplomacy presents a unique
opportunity to strengthen its global presence and influence.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has hosted numerous prestigious international sporting events, such as the
Formula E Championship, the Dakar Rally, and the Saudi International Golf Tournament. These events not
only showcase the Kingdom’s capability to host world-class sporting activities but also reflect its
commitment to utilizing sports as a medium for diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange.
Event Objectives
The overall goal of the programme is to comprehend the theoretical underpinnings of sports diplomacy, and the
role of international governing bodies as key players in the sporting ecosystem. Likewise, participants will
learn about the value of mega-sporting events in global economic diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and public
diplomacy. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to promote cultural exchange and
empower youth, contributing to the Kingdom’s aim to be “among the leaders in selected sports regionally
and globally”, promoting peace and international cooperation through the universal language of sports.
Learning Objectives
Apply an appropriate analytical approach to understand the role of Sport Mega Events and
international governing bodies (e.g., IOC, FIFA, UEFA) as pivotal actors in the sporting ecosystem;
• Outline the realms of Sports Diplomacy, while understanding the intricate relationship between
Sport and Society;
• Describe sport's critical role in global economic diplomacy, its function as a vehicle for cultural
diplomacy, and its effectiveness in engaging in public diplomacy.
Content and Structure
The online workshop will be designed to take place over two days.
Methodology
The training will be delivered via Zoom. Multimedia resources will be utilized to enhance understanding,
and to ensure active learning, the programme will incorporate a mix of lectures, practical exercises, and
interactive Q&A sessions. Other interactive features such as polls and breakout rooms will also be utilized
to enhance participant interaction. Likewise, participants will engage in role-playing and simulation activities
to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. This approach fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and
practical skill acquisition for participants' engagement in sporting fields.
Targeted Audience
The online workshop caters to the needs of 15 to 20 senior management staff working at the Ministry of
Sport of Saudi Arabia and various National Sports Federations, selected by the Leaders Development
Institute (LDI).