On 17 July 2026, a high-level event entitled «One World, One Game, One Goal: Football as a Driver of Youth Mental Health and Well-being» was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The event was organized at the initiative of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Tajikistan to the United Nations in cooperation with the United Nations Youth Office.
The event brought together Khurshed Mirzo, First Vice President of the Football Federation of Tajikistan, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs. In their remarks, the speakers underscored the significant role of football and modern digital technologies in promoting mental health, empowering young people, and fostering social inclusion.
It was emphasized that, in the era of rapid digital transformation, football can leverage digital platforms, modern communication tools, and innovative technological solutions to engage more young people in healthy lifestyles while promoting universal values, cultural development, and social cohesion.
Particular attention was given to the international initiative of the Republic of Tajikistan, advanced under the leadership of Rustam Emomali, President of the Football Federation of Tajikistan and President of the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA), to proclaim 25 May as World Football Day. The initiative was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly and has become an important global platform for promoting peace, friendship, mutual understanding, and international cooperation through sport.
As part of the event, participants viewed the «Pass the Ball» campaign video, jointly produced by the Football Federation of Tajikistan and UNICEF Tajikistan. The campaign was recognized as a successful example of integrating sport and digital innovation through the effective use of digital media platforms and social networks to raise awareness among young people about mental health and well-being.
Tajikistan’s active participation in such high-level international events once again demonstrates the country’s strong commitment not only to advancing global initiatives in the field of sport but also to harnessing digital technologies and innovation in support of sustainable development, youth mental health, and improved quality of life.
