A grassroots initiative bridges divides
The Catalan NGO NOVACT has launched a project called The Hope League in Syria, aiming to bring together children from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds through the universal language of soccer.
The program operates in four Syrian cities and two locations in Iraqi Kurdistan, engaging more than 1,300 children and 150 parents. Many participants come from the Al Hol detention camp, where families of Islamic State fighters were once held, adding a layer of trauma that the initiative seeks to address.
Coaches receive training from former FC Barcelona player Oleguer Presas, who teaches techniques for fostering cooperation and conflict resolution through play. Their approach blends sport with psychosocial support, helping children overcome fear and build friendships across lines that once seemed unbridgeable.
Partnerships amplify impact
The effort is supported by the FC Barcelona Foundation and several partner NGOs, including Doz and Doctors Without Borders, which provide logistical assistance and medical care. These collaborations enable the project to reach remote communities and to integrate parents who might otherwise remain isolated.
Since its inception, The Hope League has reported successful integration of participants from varied backgrounds. Children who once lived in separate enclaves now share pitches, learning to cooperate and resolve disputes on the field, a skill that promises to translate into broader community reconciliation.