The United Nations General Assembly adopted by consensus on Monday a resolution proclaiming May 19 as World Fair Play Day.
Submitted by Hungary, the resolution welcomes the work of the International Fair Play Committee and notes that its aim is to preserve and promote respect for the spirit of fair play and the values it conveys in elite sport and sport for all, as well as in everyday life, including observance of the rules, respect for the opponent and the fight against violence and doping.
Stressing that the spirit of fair play is deeply rooted in the Olympic ideal, the text insists that sport, the arts and physical activity can change mentalities, prejudices and behaviours. They can also be a source of inspiration for human beings, break down racial and political barriers, combat discrimination and defuse conflicts.
The resolution calls on all Member States, the United Nations system, relevant international, regional and national organizations and civil society to cooperate and observe and publicize World Fair Play Day in order to promote the practice of sport in a spirit of friendship, solidarity, tolerance and inclusion, free from any discrimination.
The document further commends countries that have hosted and will host major international sporting events and encourages them to ensure that these events leave a lasting legacy for peace, sportsmanship and fair play in the world.
At the same time, the General Assembly decided to proclaim 7 July as World Kiswahili Language Day and 24 November as World Siamese Twins Day by adopting two drafts submitted by Tanzania and Saudi Arabia respectively.
