Created following the adoption of the Global Compact on Refugees in 2018, the Global Refugee Forum brings together governments, international organisations, civil society, the private sector, academia, the sporting world and, crucially, refugees themselves, placing lived experience at the heart of global discussions. Its objectives are clear: to support host countries, promote refugee inclusion and self-reliance and improve access to education, health, employment and sport.
The International Judo Federation, represented at the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review by Nicolas Messner, IJF Judo for Peace Director, actively contributes to these discussions, advocating for sport as a powerful tool for inclusion, empowerment and peace. Within the GRF framework, initiatives such as the Sport for Refugees Coalition, launched by UNHCR and the International Olympic Committee, highlight the unique role of sport in rebuilding lives. Sport creates belonging, strengthens physical and mental health, transmits values such as respect and resilience and opens doors to opportunity.
The impact of these commitments was clearly reflected on the tatami in 2025. As a strong resonance to the discussions held in Geneva, the IJF Refugee Team delivered remarkable sporting performances on the international stage, transforming dialogue into tangible results.
Adnan Khankan led the way with an outstanding silver medal at the Senior European Cup in Malaga, Spain, showcasing consistency and competitive excellence. In Africa, Kevin Ndahabonyimana claimed a well-deserved bronze medal at the African Open in Abidjan, confirming his place among the continent’s top competitors. Completing this strong collective performance, Mohammad Rashnonezhad secured an impressive fifth place at the Dubrovnik Senior European Cup 2025, underlining the growing depth and competitiveness of the IJF Refugee Team.
These achievements are far more than podium finishes. They are the result of years of dedication, discipline and resilience from athletes for whom judo has been a cornerstone in rebuilding their lives. Through judo, they have found structure, purpose and a pathway towards a brighter future.
Beyond these results lies a broader reality. These athletes represent the visible success of thousands of refugees worldwide who practise judo through programmes led by the IJF and its Judo for Peace Commission. Together, they demonstrate that sport is not only about performance, but about hope, dignity and the power to turn global commitments into lasting change.