Tuzla, 14 August 2025 – The Mejdan Sports Center came alive with the spirit of unity and inclusion as a large number of young athletes, with and without disability, gathered to mark International Youth Day through the universal language of sport. The event, organized by Special Olympics Bosnia and Herzegovina, UNFPA, and UNICEF, showcased how diversity and solidarity can flourish on the playing field.
Laughter and cheers echoed throughout the venue as athletes of all abilities exchanged high-fives and encouragement, embodying the values of respect, teamwork, and inclusion. The day’s program featured Unified basketball and football matches, where athletes with and without disabilities competed side by side, as well as cultural performances, including a heartfelt rendition of “Just Like All Children” by the Tuzla City Children's Choir and singer-songwriter Maya Sar.
We were proud to join forces with our domestic and international partners — the City of Tuzla, the Government of Tuzla Canton, RSD Sloboda, UNFPA, UNICEF, and Lions — and, with the strong support of the authorities, make this major event a reality. As the main organizer, Special Olympics BiH, together with its partners, brought over 1,000 young people together for International Youth Day, demonstrating that sport can be a powerful tool for improving lives, inspiring healthier lifestyle choices, and driving positive change, said Kada Delić-Selimović, Director of Special Olympics for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
An inclusive awards ceremony honored every participant, emphasizing collaboration over competition. Interactive activities throughout the day highlighted how sport can drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Quality Education (SDG 4), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), and Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3).
Today’s event in Tuzla showcases how inclusive sports drive peacebuilding and change. At UNFPA, we are committed to creating opportunities for all young people to thrive, regardless of background or ability. This aligns with our mission to leave no one behind and supports the SDGs, particularly reducing inequalities and promoting social cohesion. Support from the UN Peacebuilding Fund and the Government of Italy through programs like Moving Us Closer and Youth 4 Inclusion makes this possible, said Justine Coulson, UNFPA Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The SDGs are not just a vision for the future; they are a call to action. And who better lead this charge than young people? You are the innovators, the changemakers, and the heartbeat of progress. But true progress only happens when no one is left behind. That is why today’s event is so special, as we are here to celebrate inclusion, unity, and the power of sport to transform lives, added Alexandra Ilmer, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
As the sun set over Tuzla, medals around their necks and new friendships forged, the young athletes left with more than just memories, they left with a shared vision of a more inclusive world.
International Youth Day, observed annually on 12 August, highlights the challenges young people face and celebrates their contributions to society. The theme for International Youth Day 2025, 'Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond, emphasizes the role of youth in localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by adapting global goals to meet local needs while staying aligned with national and international commitments.
