Football, Development and Peace

This book critically examines the intersection of football, development, and peacebuilding through diverse case studies across global contexts. Drawing on the author’s 20 years’ experience of research and practice in sport-for-development across six continents, the book explores the potential of football as a unifying force and a tool of positive social change.

Analysing initiatives in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia, Albania, Venezuela, Liberia, and Australia, the book examines the socio-political landscapes of these regions, assessing the effectiveness of football-based programmes in promoting social integration, development, and peace, and in addressing challenges such as poverty, health, inequality, and violence. Emphasising the importance of cultural sensitivity, collaborative partnerships, and critical reflection, the book offers insights into the complexities, challenges, limitations, and potential of football-for-development initiatives.

Featuring important perspectives on research, methodology, ethics, implementation, and practice, this book is essential reading for any advanced student, researcher, or practitioner with an interest in sport development, sport management, football studies, development studies, or the wider relationships between sport and society.