We publish the Joint Appeal for Peace that emerged as a follow-up of the International Summit ''Sport for All', dedicated to social inclusion through sport, held on 29 and 30 September at the New Synod Hall in the Vatican. The Appeal was signed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Thomas Bach; the Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça; the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family and Life, Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell; Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, Cardinal Michael Czerny:
"Our world is once again confronting conflicts, turmoil and grave challenges. The scourges of war, climate change and economic hardship have brought unspeakable pain and suffering to millions of people across the globe. As a consequence of a world war being fought piecemeal, over 100 million people have had to flee their homes, families have been separated, and countless mothers, fathers, sons and daughters are living in fear, unable to practice their faith, pursue their dreams for a better life, or even simply to play sport.
This human tragedy comes as the world is still reeling from a global pandemic that reminded us how vulnerable all human beings can be. In light of that important experience of humility, we reaffirm our determination to build on the powerful sense of solidarity with one another that emerged from the health crisis. We are convinced that it is only with such a spirit of solidarity in our hearts that we can effectively face the many challenges threatening humanity and our planet today.
In this spirit of solidarity, we urge world leaders to seek just and peaceful solutions to all disputes and conflicts. We call on them to foster dialogue, understanding and fraternity among peoples, and to uphold the dignity of every man, woman and child, especially the poor, the vulnerable, the marginalized and those suffering from the violence of war and armed conflict.
God wills the peace and unity of our human family. The Olympic and Paralympic Games are a great symbol of such unity, for they bring individuals and peoples together in healthy competition and encourage our world to see in athletic competition a genuine path to peace, founded on personal discipline and commitment to teamwork in the pursuit of excellence.
United in this conviction, we appeal to world leaders to follow this path, for the benefit of every nation and people".
Thomas Bach
IOC President
Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça
Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell
Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family and Life
Cardinal Michael Czerny
Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development