"Football is not just a game, but is also an economic force, a model of globalisation, and, more importantly, a vehicle for conflict resolution." So began a 2006 posting on the Common Ground News Service, an organization that seeks to facilitate peaceful conflict resolution by increasing opportunities for dialogue.
This fact along with the fast approaching World Cup brings me back to the cessation of internal conflict in the Ivory Coast as a result of that country's qualification for Germany 2006, marking the first time the African nation had reached the Finals. War had raged in the Ivory Coast since the 1999 military coup, with the country soon divided between the rebel-controlled north and west and government-controlled south.
However, when Le Elephants sealed qualification, they were greeted at home by a united populace, while the leaders of the warring factions decided that there would be a cessation of hostilities, so that the country could cheer together for their team. The side itself was comprised not of members of different ethnicities but of represantitives of the Ivory Coast. As such, all Ivorians could see themselves in the team and began to recognize that common bond with their peers as well. It would be an enduring unity.
"This is proof," remarked Ollo Kambir, sports editor of 24 Heures, "that when Ivorians are united, they are capable of great things....and a catalyst for true peace in this country." Indeed, disarmament began soon thereafter in 2007.
No comments:
Post a Comment