When Everything Changes – The Role of Sport in War-Torn Ukraine

What happens to sport when a country is at war? Sports facilities may be destroyed or repurposed, people are forced to leave their homes, and municipalities and sports clubs must adapt to entirely new circumstances. At the same time, sport can become an important source of connection, belonging and stability for individuals and local communities.

Through the municipal partnership between the Swedish city of Trollhättan and Fastiv in Ukraine, we will hear directly from Tetiana Avksentiuk, Head of Communications for the City of Fastiv, and Yuliia Kabanova, Editor-in-Chief of Fastiv News, about how the war has affected sporting activities and opportunities for physical activity.

How have local sports organisations managed to continue or adapt their activities? What challenges have they faced, and what role can sport play for children, young people and local communities when everyday life is turned upside down?

Andreas Gustavsson from the City of Trollhättan will introduce the partnership and lead the conversation with the Ukrainian guests, who will join remotely. Their experiences offer perspectives on the role of sport, local collaboration and the ability of communities to respond to crises.