June 29 – Finland beat the Republic of Ireland to win the second edition of the 2023 Unity Euro Cup, the UEFA backed tournament that provides an opportunity for male and female refugees to represent their host countries.
Conceived with the objective of strengthening ties between refugees and their new countries, the tournament looks to break down barriers and create a spirit of inclusion.
“Football can also help in changing negative perceptions and attitudes towards displaced people, helping them to feel included and integrate into their adopted communities. The UNITY EURO CUP also outlines the power of football when it comes to building a better future for refugees around the world,” said UEFA.
As part of its UEFA Football Sustainability Strategy 2030, the European governing body promotes the integration of refugees, asylum seekers and displaced individuals within the host communities through football.
Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA President, said: “Football is a unifying force in a world burdened by barriers. This tournament beautifully exemplifies our sport’s profound impact on people’s lives and promotes the values that UNHCR and UEFA stand for. Starting in unfamiliar surroundings is often challenging, but football can act as a powerful catalyst for integration and connection. It fosters understanding and unlocks opportunities for structured engagements and experiences that can genuinely affect our communities.”
There were 16 nations represented at the tournament with former international referee, Felix Brych, who took charge of the 2017 UEFA Champions League final, officiating the tournament’s final at the DFB Campus in Frankfurt.
“This tournament is a great example of how sport can unite individuals and communities, break down cultural barriers and empower people. Providing people whose lives have been severely affected by war, conflict, discrimination or persecution with opportunities to engage in sport can help them heal, strengthen their skills – or help develop new ones – and feel included,” said Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
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