Give Sport a Say

Programme: CERV – Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme
Duration: February 2026 – February 2028
Role of OPES: Coordinator
Project Website: https://www.givesportasay.eu/

Project Overview

Give Sport a Say is a European initiative that highlights the role of grassroots sport in promoting the fundamental values of the European Union, democracy, and human rights.

The project is based on the understanding that fostering values such as democracy and human rights requires both collective commitment and a practical understanding of how these principles apply to everyday life. Grassroots sport provides a unique environment for this purpose, as it offers one of the most accessible and immediate ways for people to experience active citizenship, participation, inclusion, and community engagement.

Objectives

Give Sport a Say positions sport as a genuine classroom of democracy, recognising that its impact extends beyond health and well-being to include rights related to education, cultural participation, and civic engagement.

The project aims to:

  • Promote awareness of European values through grassroots sport;
  • Encourage active citizenship and democratic participation;
  • Foster dialogue between citizens, sports organisations, and policymakers;
  • Contribute to discussions on the future of European sport and EU policies.

Activities and Expected Results

The project will run for two years, from March 2026 to February 2028, and will deliver 16 events across Europe.

Activities will be integrated into existing sporting, educational, and governance events, creating opportunities for participants to discuss key issues, exchange ideas, and contribute to shaping the future of the European Union and sport-related policies.

As project coordinator, OPES leads a European consortium of seven organisations with expertise in sport, education, citizenship, and civic participation.

Partnership

  • OPES – Italian Organisation for Sports Education (Italy) – Lead Coordinator
  • EAS – European Athlete as Student (Malta)
  • ENSE – European Network of Sport Education (Austria)
  • EU Sport Link (Belgium)
  • EUSA Institute (Slovenia)
  • TAFISA – The Association For International Sport for All (Germany)
  • UFEC – Sports Federation Union of Catalonia (Spain)
Altri Progetti OPES