The Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) and UNICEF signed a groundbreaking cooperation memorandum today, focusing on the protection and promotion of children’s rights through football. Held at the “House of Football,” the signing ceremony brought together FSHF President Armand Duka and UNICEF’s representative in Albania, Mr. Murat Sahin.

This partnership is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for children, increasing public awareness, and mobilizing local communities to champion children’s rights and development through sports initiatives.

In his address, President Duka underscored the importance of this alliance, noting that football has the power to deliver positive messages that can uplift and protect children.

“I want to thank Mr. Murat for this cooperation and for formalizing this memorandum. For the Football Federation, this is a continuation of our ongoing efforts in this cause. We’ve long recognized football’s potential to contribute to the well-being and protection of children, and this partnership allows us to institutionalize our shared goals. We are committed to sending positive messages about children’s rights, women’s and girls’ rights, and any cause we can champion together. Our first step is to ensure these messages reach players through our coaches and football leaders. Secondly, we aim to engage the entire community to protect children’s rights, support their education, and promote their integration, especially for young girls. I am confident that through this partnership, our message will resonate even more deeply, helping us achieve our shared vision: a brighter future for our children,” Duka stated.

UNICEF’s representative, Murat Sahin, highlighted that this partnership is designed to foster supportive communities, empowering children to realize their full potential through football.

“Thank you, President Duka. It’s an honor to enter this partnership between the Albanian Football Federation and UNICEF. For UNICEF, sports are a key to building confidence, respect, and cognitive skills in children. Through football, we can reach every home, school, and community across Albania, helping children fulfill their potential and become active citizens. Identifying, empowering, and supporting young people through the joy of football is essential to this mission,” Sahin emphasized.

The cooperation memorandum includes a range of initiatives and training sessions for coaches, parents, and sports communities on children’s rights and safeguarding, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to child protection in the world of sports.

/a.c/