Refugee Olympic Team visits the UN in Ashgabat

It is only the third time that a team comprised of refugees has taken part in a major sporting event, following the successful participation of a refugee team at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and the 2017 World Athletics Championships in London.

“If you dream you can win that medal, you will win that medal!” stated Ms. Eunice Hasango, Chief Executive Officer at the Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation, who is representing the Refugee Olympic Team in Ashgabat. Ms. Hasango also emphasised what a positive role the Refugee Olympic Team were to young refugees who had many dreams and aspirations despite the difficulties in their lives.

“The participation of the Refugee Olympic Team is a bright demonstration of ensuring inclusiveness of the Games and an example of implementing the fundamental principle of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development: “no one should be left behind” concluded Ms. Panova at the event.

Participants were treated to in-depth discussion regarding the positive role the Refugee Olympic Team were playing to highlight the plight of refugees globally. The athletes talked about what it means to be a refugee, their athletic careers and the positive impact sport played in their lives. Afterwards, an informal chat between athletes and UN staff took place