ABSTRACT VIEW
SPORTS-BASED EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES FOR SOCIAL INCLUSION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INTERVENTIONS FOR MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES
M.G. Pirina1, R. Solinas1, M. Farooq2
1 Mine Vaganti NGO (ITALY)
2 Yasar University (TURKEY)
This paper presents a systematic review and comparative analysis of sports-based educational initiatives aimed at promoting social inclusion among marginalized communities, particularly migrants, refugees, and at-risk youth. The study aims to identify which intervention models are most effective in fostering intercultural understanding, social cohesion, and individual empowerment through sports. The research methodology involves a structured review of 45 sources, including peer-reviewed academic studies, EU-funded project evaluations, NGO reports, and policy frameworks. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify patterns in program design, implementation contexts, target groups, and outcomes. Findings reveal that programs with strong community engagement, culturally responsive coaching, and integrated educational components show the highest impact on reducing discrimination and improving social connectedness. However, challenges such as limited scalability, funding gaps, and inconsistent monitoring persist. The paper concludes by offering practical recommendations for policymakers, educators, and social enterprises on how to design inclusive, sustainable, and adaptable sports-based interventions for diverse social contexts.

Keywords: Social Inclusion Sports Education Marginalized Communities Systematic Review Comparative Analysis Intercultural Dialogue Community Engagement Inclusive Education Empowerment through Sport Educational Best Practices

Event: EDULEARN25
Track: Language Learning and Teaching
Session: Intercultural & Sociocultural Competences
Session type: VIRTUAL