SHENZHEN –FIFA has a growing social responsibility, in particular in developing nations around the world, Alexander Koch, the soccer body’s spokesman told the group of young sports journalists today.
FIFAhas organised more than 82 programs in more than 50 countries, educating children and implementing social change, Alexander Koch,FIFA’s communications and marketing executive, said. He spoke at a session of the FISU-AIPS Young Reporters’ Program for 60 young reporters.
“The programs are not about developing football … It’s using football as a tool for social change,” Koch said.
FIFA’s flagship program, Football for Hope, took place inSouth Africalast year where children were educated about the dangers of HIV/AIDS, social skills and fairness through the game of football.
Koch, who helped play a key role in planning the 2006 FIFAWorld Cup, said FIFA’s social responsibilities go far beyond Africa.
Social change was also implemented by local organizers in Germany at the World Cup there. The logo, for instance, was made up of three big smiley faces in all different colours – a change-up, if you will, from the traditional German stereotype.
“The logo was something you wouldn’t expect fromGermany,” he said, adding a moment later, “It wasn’t the straight, square, German shepherd-type logo … it was about social progress.”
In addition, local officials briefed taxi drivers and hotel staff and others about how to be extra-friendly. The idea was simply to be good hosts.
He said, “It took some very complex and detailed planning.”
To reflect this change in attitude, he said, FIFA changed its official slogan as well: “For the game for the world.”
(Source: FISU Young Reporter Dominick Czakilew/AUS)
Alexander Koch
(Photos: C. Pierre/FISU)
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