Hope League: documenting the stories of non-competitive football for peace, coexistence and global citizenship in Iraqi Kurdistan and North-Eastern Syria
General information
Project name: Lliga Esperança: documentant les històries del futbol no competitiu per la pau, la convivència i ciutadania global al Kurdistan Iraquià i Nord-Est de Síria
Country: Spain
Timeline: From 1 May 2025 to 31 August 2026
Lead Organisation: NOVACT – Nonviolence
Summary of Action
The “Hope League” project addresses the pressing need to foster global justice and social cohesion in a polarized world, while amplifying the voices of communities in Syria’s and Iraq’s Kurdistan, regions profoundly impacted by conflict and displacement. With increasing military interventions, the resurgence of ISIS, and the erosion of youth engagement in peacebuilding initiatives in Catalonia, this project seeks to inspire action and solidarity through the transformative power of football.
The action aims to educate and mobilize Catalan society—particularly youth—around values of coexistence, gender equity, and reconciliation, connecting them to global challenges. By leveraging football as a universal language, the project engages traditionally disconnected audiences, making global justice narratives accessible and relatable.
Expected Results:
- Increased understanding of global interdependencies, reaching 150,000 viewers via a documentary showcased on platforms like Filmin and public screenings.
- Mobilization of disengaged audiences, moving 20% into higher levels of civic commitment.
- Establishing transnational alliances between Catalan football clubs and Kurdish sports entities, fostering dialogue and solidarity.
Activities:
- Documentary Production: Capturing inspiring stories of communities rebuilding social bonds through football.
- Digital Campaign: Creating engaging transmedia content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram to amplify youth outreach.
- Educational Sessions: Hosting workshops and talks with football clubs, culminating in a symbolic “Match for Peace” involving Catalan and Kurdish players.
By integrating innovative educational tools, digital engagement, and intercultural exchanges, “Hope League” drives both local and global impact, reinforcing the power of grassroots initiatives to foster lasting peace and justice.
Sustainable Development Goals
This project supports the following SDGs:
| SDG Number | SDG Title |
|---|---|
| 4 | Quality education |
| 5 | Gender equality |
| 10 | Reduced inequalities |
| 16 | Peace, justice, and strong institutions |
| 17 | Partnerships for the goals |
Budget of project
€30,000.00
Contact