Olympiacos, within the framework of its participation in the European project FONTES (Fostering New Techniques for Social Integration through Sport), successfully organised two online consultation activities: an expert interview and a focus group, aiming to collect data and highlight good practices regarding the use of sport as a tool for social inclusion.

The interview was conducted with the Commander of the Controlled Accommodation Facility for Asylum Seekers, Mr. Thomas Papakonstantinou, who has extensive experience in designing and implementing social inclusion initiatives for children and young people with refugee and migrant backgrounds. The discussion highlighted the role of sport as an effective mechanism for developing social skills, enhancing school participation, and promoting psychosocial empowerment.

Subsequently, an online focus group was held with the participation of representatives from public organisations, such as the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, and civil society organisations, including SolidarityNow, KMOP and the Greek Council for Refugees. The participants are active in fields such as refugee and migrant support, youth inclusion, education and community development, and have practical experience in implementing sports and educational inclusion activities, with a particular focus on Roma children and adolescents, as well as those with refugee and migrant backgrounds.

Participants highlighted the importance of sport as a “universal language” that facilitates the inclusion of children and young people, especially those who are not engaged in other educational or social activities. At the same time, key challenges were identified, including the lack of sustainable funding, bureaucratic barriers, and limited access to equipment and appropriate infrastructure.

Particular emphasis was also placed on the need to strengthen cooperation among stakeholders, develop educational tools, and create digital platforms for the dissemination of knowledge and good practices at European level.

The consultation activities were designed and implemented by the Olympiacos team, and the discussion was coordinated by Ms Dimitra Lygoura, former Secretary General for Reception of Asylum Seekers and former Secretary General for Anti-Crime Policy, within the framework of the club’s responsibilities in the FONTES project.

The findings from both activities are expected to contribute substantially to the next phase of the FONTES project, which involves the development of a training programme and specialised tools aimed at enhancing the skills of coaches, professionals and volunteers in the field of social inclusion through sport.

The FONTES project is implemented under the Erasmus+ Sport Programme and is co-funded by the European Union, aiming to promote innovative approaches that use sport as a means of social cohesion and inclusion of vulnerable groups.