SAMBO Stands in Solidarity with Refugees

Today, the International SAMBO Federation (FIAS) joins the world in solidarity with refugees on World Refugee Day. This day is not just a date on the calendar; it's a call to action – a moment to honour the strength, courage, and resilience of millions forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or disaster.

At SAMBO, we believe sport is a powerful tool for inclusion, healing, and hope. Since 2019, FIAS has partnered with World Taekwondo and the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation to bring martial arts to refugee communities, offering them structure, empowerment, and a sense of belonging.

We are proud of Maria Amyulina Guedez, the first refugee athlete to become a World SAMBO Champion. Her journey – from displacement to the top of the podium – demonstrates the potential for every refugee to thrive when given opportunities.

This year's theme is "Solidarity with Refugees" – not just in words, but in actions. We urge the SAMBO community worldwide to participate in this campaign:

Post a photo with your hands forming a heart to symbolize unity.

Support the @UNRefugeeAgency—because Every Action Counts.

Together, let us affirm clearly and courageously: Refugees are not alone. SAMBO stands with them.

#WithRefugees #RefugeeDay #EveryoneCanMakeADifference

In December 2023, IOC President and ORF Chair Thomas Bach addressed global leaders, ambassadors, refugees, and humanitarian sector members at the Global Refugee Forum. He presented the Multi-Stakeholder Pledge on Sport for Inclusion and Protection. At this time, FIAS joined the Sport for Refugees Coalition, launched in 2019 by the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Since its inception, the Coalition has grown to over 140 members, including governments, refugee-led organizations, National Olympic Committees, International Sports Federations, clubs, associations, the private sector, and civil society organizations.