views expressed are writer’s own.IN this modern age, as the world becomes a global village through trade, travel and media, new dimensions of diplomacy emerge, including educational, cultural, and, most importantly, sports diplomacy. Unlike other forms of diplomacy, sports diplomacy transcends linguistic, national, and cultural boundaries, promoting friendship, respect, and tolerance. Using sports as a means of diplomacy creates opportunities for peaceful coexistence between nations.
The term “sports diplomacy” was coined in the 1950s, a time of significant global changes post-World War II. Football matches between the United States and Russia aimed to improve relations, as did tennis matches between England and Germany, highlighting the potential of sports in diplomatic efforts.
The evolution and promotion of sports in Pakistan formally began after its establishment. Initially managed by the British government, sports like cricket, hockey, football, tennis, kabaddi, and badminton gained popularity. Cricket has since become the most popular sport, paving the way for the growth of other sports. Various sports organizations, such as the Pakistan Olympic Association, Pakistan Cricket Board, and others, regulate and formulate policies for different sports.
Sports development policies in Pakistan include frameworks for legal aspects, facilities, organization, training, promotion, a sports fund, formation of federations, sports education, media’s role, and the creation of sports bodies.
Pakistan’s sports diplomacy has a rich history, with cricket and hockey playing pivotal roles. Cricket, the most popular sport, has contributed to the country’s global image, with successes in major tournaments and the production of renowned players. Hosting international cricket events, like the 1987 and 1996 World Cups, enhanced Pakistan’s soft image and boosted tourism.
Hockey, Pakistan’s national sport, has won Olympic gold three times and the World Cup four times. Hosting events like the 1990 World Cup has furthered sports diplomacy efforts. Squash and snooker have also seen progress in recent years, with Pakistan hosting events like the 2017 World Squash Championship.
Sports activities at the international level, especially those involving the Pakistan Cricket Team, have played a crucial role in reviving international sports in the country and fostering cooperation at the global level. Sports serve as a unifying force, strengthening ties with Pakistanis worldwide and promoting friendship messages to other countries.
In recent years, sports diplomacy has contributed to improving relations between Pakistan and other countries. Cricket has been a tool for bettering relations between Pakistan and India, while hockey has played a role in enhancing ties with neighbouring Iran.
—The writer is media science student SZABIST University, Islamabad.
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views expressed are writer’s own.
