Sport as a bridge: Exploring the role of sports programs in the social integration of teenage refugees

Abstract

This research explores the role of sports initiatives, both within and outside educational settings, in the integration of Ukrainian war refugees in Austria, Germany, and England. By analyzing interviews with ten refugees, the study investigates how sports activities influence key aspects of integration, including social cohesion, a sense of belonging, and cultural adaptation. The results indicate that participation in sports significantly enhances the subjective integration of refugees. Both educational and non-educational sports programs are crucial in this process. Sports programs within educational institutions offer structured opportunities for skill development and social interaction, while those outside formal education settings promote informal social networks and cultural exchange. Ukrainian refugees have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, actively participating in social activities within their host communities, which serves as a vital pathway to their integration into European societies. This study underscores the importance of providing accessible and inclusive sports programs that meet diverse needs, as well as the necessity of comprehensive support services to complement sports-based integration efforts. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of sports initiatives to facilitate the integration of refugees into host communities, while also emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to address the complex challenges faced by refugee populations.