UNHCR Partners with LIV Golf to Launch $10M Sport-for-Protection Initiative for Displaced Communities

Historic collaboration aims to deliver innovative sport and education programs to improve the lives of refugees and displaced people across four continents.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has announced its first-ever partnership with LIV Golf through a groundbreaking three-year agreement to deliver sport-for-protection programs benefiting refugees, internally displaced people, and their host communities. The collaboration aims to leverage the power of golf and sport to foster social inclusion, well-being, and educational outcomes for some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

As part of the initiative, LIV Golf has committed $10 million to support programs across Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America, with a focus on increasing access to sport and education for up to 1 million forcibly displaced people. The partnership will also introduce golf and play-based activities to improve the quality of life for refugees, especially children and youth, by offering safe spaces, promoting team spirit, and creating pathways for personal growth.

Khaled Khalifa, UNHCR’s Senior Advisor and Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council, emphasized the positive impact of sports on displaced communities: “Sport provides a sense of purpose and fosters community cohesion at a time when people have been uprooted from their homes. Through this partnership with LIV Golf, we aim to create opportunities that improve the well-being and future prospects of those in need.”

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman expressed pride in the collaboration, noting that this is the first time a professional golf organization has partnered with UNHCR. “LIV Golf’s ‘Potential Unleashed’ strategy is about using golf as a force for positive change. We are honoured to work with UNHCR to deliver meaningful programming that uplifts displaced communities.”

The partnership’s activities will take place in community centers, schools, refugee camps, and sports clubs, ensuring that people of all ages, genders, and abilities can access these programs. Beyond sports, the initiative is designed to help establish career pathways and educational opportunities for displaced individuals, empowering them with the tools to rebuild their lives.

Norman highlighted the inclusive vision of LIV Golf: “Our players, teams, and league are committed to making golf more inclusive and expanding its reach to uplift individuals and communities worldwide. This partnership is a significant step in broadening the impact of our sport.”

The UNHCR-LIV Golf partnership is expected to create lasting social and educational benefits, marking a new era in sport-for-protection initiatives that harness the global influence of professional sports organizations to support displaced populations.