Each year, on 6 April, the global community celebrates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP), highlighting the unique power of sport to unite, promote inclusivity and foster peace. At the heart of this celebration is the #WhiteCard campaign, initiated by Peace and Sport, symbolising the positive influence sport can have in creating a better world.
Significance of the #WhiteCard
The #WhiteCard is a global symbol of peace, inclusion and equity. By raising a #WhiteCard, athletes, organisations and individuals demonstrate their commitment to using sport as a means for positive social change.
Our badminton players in support of #WhiteCard Day.
Badminton’s Commitment to Peace
BWF has long supported the #WhiteCard campaign. In 2019, BWF President Poul-Erik Høyer, along with the global badminton community, raised a #WhiteCard in solidarity, reinforcing the sport’s dedication to peace and development. Since then, BWF has remained an active advocate, encouraging players and fans worldwide to take part in the movement.
To mark the day this year, a BWF Shuttle Time Teachers Course was organised at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) in Kuala Lumpur on 16 February. Supported by BWF, HAIER SEA and TAR UMT, the course welcomed 14 participants, including BWF staff, TAR UMT students, IGB Commercial REIT staff, ISKL youth students, caregivers from Rumah Kasih Harmoni Paya Jaras and teachers from IDEAS Academy.
In addition to the course, BWF also conducted a coaching clinic at TAR UMT on 8 March. The clinic saw 64 children from various local homes participate (Mega Orang Asli Children Home, Living Water Learning Centre, Shelter Home for Children, Peace Education Centre, and MON Refugee Learning Centre).
Supporting Children in Conflict Zones
This year, the #WhiteCard campaign focuses on a critical issue: the plight of children living in conflict-affected areas. According to UNICEF, over 460 million children – more than one in six globally – currently live in conflict zones, facing disruptions to their education and a lack of safe spaces to play and grow.
Sport plays a vital role in these challenging environments. It provides a sense of normality, instils confidence, promotes mutual understanding and teaches essential life skills. Recognising this, the United Nations has acknowledged sport’s unique capacity to contribute to education, social cohesion, violence prevention and reconciliation.
On this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, Peace and Sport is urging the world to raise a #WhiteCard in solidarity with the 460 million children whose lives are impacted by conflict. This simple yet powerful gesture serves as a reminder of the urgent need to prioritise sport as a tool for peace.
As BWF observes #WhiteCard Day 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to using sport as a force for good, ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstances, has the opportunity to play, learn and thrive in a peaceful world.
If you are looking for ideas to plan your own event, visit the Peace & Sport website.
We look forward to seeing how you and your organisation celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.
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