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What is Athletics for a Better World?

Athletics is the world’s sport – nothing is more simple or universal.

This means accepting a global responsibility to use the power and reach of athletics to make a positive difference

We are delighted to introduce a landmark new social responsibility programme called Athletics for a Better World (ABW) that harnesses the commitment and energy of the worldwide athletics family to inspire lasting change.

ABW will provide a common brand and platform to promote all projects that seek to use athletics as a tool for social good.

Social responsibility is a key element of the World Athletics Strategic Plan and we are ready to activate a worldwide network of area associations, member federations, volunteers, families, athletes, sponsors and other public institutions who believe in the values of our sport. Social Responsibility also allows athletics to be seen as more than just 'another performance-driven sport' but as something with much more to offer.

World Athletics will provide the leadership so that our stake holders can add value to their own work by concentrating the synergies of projects in the fields of health, environment, social inclusion and peace.

Health
Mass athletics participation activities which contribute to creating a healthier, fitter society, especially for young people.

Environment
Green projects which are sustainable and use athletics to show respect for the world’s precious natural resources and advocate eco-effective competition guidelines.

Social inclusion
We can use athletics to bring people together and to help overcome the challenges caused by social inequality.

Peace
By working with external partners, we can ensure there is awareness and advocacy for using sport to bring peace to areas of conflict.