fairplay Initiative

fairplay at the Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation (VIDC) is the initiative for diversity and anti-discrimination in sport. The initiative was founded in 1997 as part of the European Year against Racism.

The thematic focus is on anti-discrimination and diversity, social inclusion, human rights and development and prevention of extremism.

Mission Statement

Since 1997, fairplay has been working in and through sport to promote a society without exclusion. We use the power of sport to promote diversity, inclusion, anti-discrimination and human rights, as well as to prevent extremism. At all levels of sport – from athletes and associations to schools, clubs and fans – we raise awareness, develop positive strategies against discrimination and support marginalised groups to participate equally.

Goals of the fairplay initiative

• Strengthening public awareness by initiating a broad and media-effective commitment to diversity and against discrimination;
• Creating an awareness of the problem in the football and sports community (officials, players, coaches, fans and sports journalists) for anti-racist and anti-discriminatory content;
• Promoting a differentiated reflection on the phenomenon of sport, especially football, on a national and international expert level and thus pointing out positive strategies against open and everyday discrimination inside and outside football stadiums and other sports facilities;
• Supporting marginalised groups (migrants, young people, fans) in their active participation.

The fairplay initiative is funded by the Austrian Ministry of Sport, the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADA), the European Commission within the framework of the ERASMUS+ Sport Programme, the City of Vienna and supported by UEFA.