The Special Olympics Unified with Refugees initiative continues its global expansion, with new inclusive sporting events taking place in Cyprus, Italy, Slovakia and Spain in January and February 2026, supported by the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme.
Since its launch in 2016, the United with refugees initiative has had a positive impact on more than 10,000 refugees and people with intellectual disability worldwide. The program creates meaningful opportunities for social inclusion through sport, linking Special Olympics athletes and refugees Uniform teams where participants with and without intellectual disabilities play together. In addition to promoting physical activity, the initiative also strengthens emotional well-being, builds friendships, reduces social isolation and increases public awareness of inclusivity, dignity and equal opportunities.
The growth of the program has been made possible through continued collaboration with the European Unionas well as the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), Lions Clubs International Foundation, ESPNand a network of local and national partners.
Gerald Mballenow Global Coordinator for the Special Olympics Unified with Refugees program, was first introduced to the Special Olympics movement in 2015 in Turin, Italy, as a legally resettled refugee. His journey from participant to world leader reflects the life-changing potential of the program.
“The Unified with Refugees program is a powerful example of how sport can restore hope, rebuild trust and create a true sense of belonging. For many refugees, this initiative is more than a game; it is a path to friendship, healing, leadership and a future built on dignity and opportunity. I am living proof that when communities choose inclusion through sport, lives can be transformed.”
Gerald Mballe, Global Coordinator for the Special Olympics Unified with Refugees Program
Today, the Special Olympics Unified with Refugees program is active Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burundi, Cyprus, Italy, Kenya, Malawi, Moldavia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, TanzaniaAnd Ugandaand continues to grow its global footprint.
In Cyprus, the initiative has placed a strong emphasis on supporting refugees through uniform sporting events in shelters and host communities, which provide a safe and welcoming environment for connection.
“Thanks to Unified with Refugees, hundreds of refugees, athletes, families and volunteers have discovered new friendships and opportunities. This initiative proves that when sport, education and inclusivity come together, we can create long-term social change and a more compassionate society.”
Eleni Rossides, National Director of Special Olympics Cyprus
Financed by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Executive Agency for Education and Culture (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the EACEA can be held responsible for this.
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