AIPS says sport can rebuild culture and connection as the world enters 2026 amid instability
In a New Year message shared via Africa Newsroom, the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) argued that sport can help restore cultural meeting points and social bonds—especially for young people—if conflict trends reverse.
The commentary frames 2026 against a backdrop of geopolitical tension, while insisting sport’s cultural role can re-create shared spaces where communities reconnect beyond politics.
It also challenges sports media and institutions to treat sport as civic infrastructure—something that can support dialogue, identity and cohesion, not only entertainment.
A second publication of the message repeats the framing “Our year 2026” and the emphasis on sport’s cultural power. AIPS’ official release materials similarly underline the role of sport in sustaining “culture and connection” across societies.
Echotitbits take:
Sport is one of the last mass rituals that can unify across class and politics. Watch whether investment flows into grassroots programmes—schools, community leagues, youth tournaments—rather than only elite spectacles.
Source: Africa24 — January 2, 2026 — https://africa24tv.com/our-year-2026-between-war-drums-and-the-hope-of-a-sport-that-rediscovers-culture
Africa24 2026-01-02
Photo Credit: Africa24
