UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization aiming to build peace through international cooperation in Education, the Sciences and Culture. UNESCO's programmes notably contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in Agenda 2030, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015.

UNESCO is also the United Nations agency responsible for promoting physical education and education and sport through concerted, collaborative and participatory action to support development.

 

International Charter of Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport

The International Charter of Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport is a rights-based reference that orients and supports policy and decision making in sport. The charter was adopted during the 20th session of the UNESCO’s General Conference (1978) and promotes inclusive access to sport by all without any form of discrimination. It notably sets ethical and quality standards for all actors designing, implementing and evaluating sport programmes and policies.

Through CIGEPS (Intergovernmental Committee for Physical Education and Sport established in 1978) , UNESCO has a unique ability to drive government action in the field of sport and physical education and to ensure the implementation of evidence-based physical education and sport policies and programmes around the world. CIGEPS plays a critical role in the preparation and follow-up of MINEPS (The International Conference of Ministers and Senior Officials Responsible for Physical Education and Sport).