UNHCR and the Albanian Football Association Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Promote Inclusion and Social Cohesion Through Sports

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Albania and the Albanian Football Association (AFA) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in promoting the inclusion of refugees, asylum-seekers and stateless persons, as well as social cohesion and youth development through sports.

The MoU, signed by the UNHCR Representative in Albania, Toshitsuki Kawauchi, and the President of the Albanian Football Association, Armand Duka, reflects a shared commitment to use the power of football to foster stronger ties between refugees and host communities across Albania.

The agreement builds on the longstanding global partnership between UNHCR and UEFA, recognising sport as a powerful tool for protection, inclusion, and well-being. Under the MoU, UNHCR and AFA will work together to create opportunities for refugee and host community children and youth to engage in football. The partnership will provide safe and inclusive spaces where they can develop their skills in an environment that promotes teamwork, resilience and solidarity. 

“Sport has the unique ability to bring people together, foster understanding and create hope. This agreement with the Albanian Football Association is a step forward in ensuring that refugee children and youth are not left behind but are able to participate fully, alongside their Albanian peers”, said UNHCR Representative in Albania Toshitsuki Kawauchi

AFA President Armand Duka said: “Football is more than a game – it is a force for unity, teamwork and opportunity. Through this cooperation with UNHCR, we want to show that football belongs to everyone, including refugees and displaced people who now call Albania their home.”

The MoU is part of a wider effort to promote social inclusion and advance the Sustainable Development Goals in Albania.

For more information, please contact:

Sevcan Hacilar, UNHCR Representation in Albania: hacilar@unhcr.org