Commonwealth governments will gather in Rio de Janeiro on the eve of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games to push for greater recognition of sport as a vehicle to deliver global development goals, such as on health and education. At the Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting, the government representatives are expected to deliver a powerful statement of intent on how sports policy can help achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was agreed by world leaders almost a year ago.
 
Commonwealth governments, who represent 53 countries and more than two billion people, will also address the impact of doping and corruption scandals on the integrity of sport, and how greater Commonwealth co-operation can address these kind of issues.
 
In a statement, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland underscored the valuable role of sport in efforts to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agreed at the United Nations in September 2015, which include ensuring good health, education, gender equality, peace and justice for all. But she warned that growing threats to sport risk undermining its benefits to young people and communities.
 
“Commonwealth leaders have consistently recognised the potential for sport to be employed as a catalyst for human and social development and to promote respect and understanding,” the Secretary-General said. “As we work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals it is critical that this potential is realised for the benefit of all Commonwealth citizens. This will require targeted policies and dedicated resourcing focused on enhancing the contribution sport can make to the 2030 Agenda.”
 
“This upcoming meeting is an opportunity for our governments to draw on Commonwealth analysis and guidance, share effective national policy responses and strategies, and affirm their commitment to work collaboratively to maximise the positive impact of sport.”