Open Fun Football Schools
The Danish organization Cross Cultures Project Association (CCPA) uses grassroots sports as a tool for social cohesion in society and post-conflict reconciliation. The Open Fun Football Schools project is organized by CCPA in cooperation with the Football Association of Norway (NFF) The project has developed into a broad Nordic cooperation, which so far involves larger r
egional operations in the Balkans, the Caucasus, Moldova and the Middle East. Furthermore, CCPA has been UEFA Charity Partner since 2002. The Open Fun football Schools is directed towards supporting the development of civil society and the strength of the project is to be found in its ability to generate social capital; strengthen relations between people and build community platforms engaging a wide scope of relevant stakeholders. This program concentrates on bringing children from war zones together through football. In this way grassroots sport creates a “space” that is not politically contaminated. “Football constitutes a universal language, which can be used by everyone. It is a language of fun, enjoyment and team spirit that derive from the game” (CEO Anders Levinsen). Football is emotions and, therefore, football can function as a “driver” that unites people across cultural or religious differences. It is a new and joyful way of playing football, giving participants the chance to gain some new experiences. It is more important that children learn that playing football is “fun”.
