Filippo Grandi Urges World to Emulate Refugee Teams at Paris 2024 Olympics

Grandi emphasized that these athletes exemplify peaceful co-existence and mutual respect, serving as a powerful symbol of hope and unity.

At the opening of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi called on the world to follow the example set by the refugee athletes competing in the Games. Grandi emphasized that these athletes exemplify peaceful co-existence and mutual respect, serving as a powerful symbol of hope and unity.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has partnered with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the International Paralympic Committee, and the Olympic Refuge Foundation to support refugees at the Games. As Vice-Chair of the Olympic Refuge Foundation, Grandi participated in the torch relay and will attend the opening ceremony in Paris, representing the 120 million forcibly displaced people worldwide.

“Sport is a symbol of hope and peace, which are in short supply today,” Grandi remarked. “The refugee team is a beacon of what can be achieved when talent is nurtured and opportunities are provided. These athletes are an inspiration to all.”

Grandi, who recently received the Olympic Laurel, an IOC award recognizing significant contributions to education, culture, development, and peace through sport, will accept the award on behalf of UNHCR at the Opening Ceremony.

He highlighted the global crisis of forced displacement, noting that conflicts in countries such as Sudan, Ukraine, Palestine, and Myanmar continue to displace millions. Grandi, alongside UN Secretary-General António Guterres, has called for global adherence to the Olympic Truce, which mandates a halt to hostilities during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The UN General Assembly adopted this truce for the Paris Games in November.

“Sport is crucial for refugees of all ages,” Grandi added. “It fosters community, enhances mental and physical health, offers positive role models, and imparts valuable life lessons. Our partnership with the IOC is deeply valued, and I look forward to its continued growth.”

At Paris 2024, 37 refugee athletes will compete, marking the largest refugee team since the IOC introduced refugee teams at the Rio Games in 2016.