As the World Cup unfolds, captivating fans around the globe, the broad appeal of high-level sports is on full display. But the impact of sports extends far beyond major international events to include far-reaching benefits for ordinary people.
Initiatives that encourage people to exercise regularly can help to reduce the incidence of strokes, cancer and depression, resulting in higher productivity and lower health care costs. These are important goals for a region like Latin America and the Caribbean, where one in four adults is obese.
Sports can also strengthen social relationships, by bringing together people from different backgrounds and creating a sense of shared purpose and identity. Moreover, they can provide a productive outlet for young people, keeping them focused and engaged and boosting their self-esteem, thereby reducing their vulnerability to harmful social influences. And they can promote qualities like perseverance, teamwork and leadership — the kinds of soft skills employers seek in job candidates.