The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on Tuesday (Wednesday AEST) proclaiming May 25 as World Football Day.
The day marks the 100th anniversary of the first international soccer tournament in history with the representation of all regions that took place on May 25, 1924, during the summer Olympic Games in Paris, according to the resolution.
The 193-member General Assembly adopted the resolution by consensus with a bang of the gavel by its president, Dennis Francis, to applause from diplomats in the assembly chamber. It was co-sponsored by more than 160 countries.
Libya's UN Ambassador Taher El-Sonni, who introduced the resolution, told the assembly: "Football or soccer as others call it is the number one game played and followed around the globe."
But he said soccer was more than just a game played by all ages on streets, in villages, schools and courtyards for fun and in competitions.
Because of its "unparalleled position" in the world of sports, El-Sonni said "football serves as a universal language spoken across the globe, cutting across national, cultural and socio-economic barriers".
He said the game had become "a pivotal platform" championing gender equality and social inclusion, "a common ground where individuals from varying backgrounds converge, promoting mutual understanding, tolerance, respect and solidarity".
It also recognises "the fundamental role" of soccer's international governing body, FIFA, and the important role of regional and national soccer federations, as well as relevant associations, in promoting the game.
The resolution encourages all countries to support soccer and other sports as a tool to promote peace, development and the empowerment of women and girls.
It also encourages countries to adopt policies and programs to promote football and other sports and physical activities.
On May 25, the resolution "invites" all nations, UN bodies, international organisations, academia, civil society and the private sector to observe World Football Day in line with national priorities "and to disseminate the advantages of football for all, including through educational and public awareness-raising activities".
8°C