Zagreb, Dubrovnik, 6 April 2025 – Athletes have once again joined the traditional celebration of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (6 April), organized annually by the Croatian United Nations Association (CUNA) in cooperation with its partners. This year marks the 12th consecutive time athletes have taken part. Following the handball players, members of the national judo team also joined the initiative.
By raising white cards into the air, accomplished judokas led by Olympic gold medalist Barbara Matić expressed their support for the international “White Card” campaign, which symbolizes commitment to peace efforts around the world. Prior to them, Croatian women’s handball players had done the same, continuing the tradition set by their male counterparts, who were long-time participants in this commendable initiative.
To recall, based on a proposal by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the United Nations (UN), the UN General Assembly declared 6 April as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace on 23 August 2013. It is on this date in 1896 that the first modern Olympic Games were opened in Athens. In September 2015, the UN adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which highlights the essential role of sport in promoting development and peace, tolerance, and mutual respect among people.
Celebrating this day also increases awareness of the positive impact sport can have on the advancement of human rights, as well as social and economic development.
