The following is the Joint Appeal of the Comité International Olympique, the Dicastery for Culture and Education, the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, and the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development:

FOLLOW THE PATH OF PEACE

Our world is once again confronting conflicts, turmoil and grave challenges. The scourges of war, climate change and economic hardship have brought unspeakable pain and suffering to millions of people across the globe. As a consequence of a world war being fought piecemeal, over 100 million people have had to flee their homes, families have been separated, and countless mothers, fathers, sons and daughters are living in fear, unable to practice their faith, pursue their dreams for a better life, or even simply to play sport.

This human tragedy comes as the world is still reeling from a global pandemic that reminded us how vulnerable all human beings can be. In light of that important experience of humility, we reaffirm our determination to build on the powerful sense of solidarity with one another that emerged from the health crisis. We are convinced that it is only with such a spirit of solidarity in our hearts that we can effectively face the many challenges threatening humanity and our planet today.

In this spirit of solidarity, we urge world leaders to seek just and peaceful solutions to all disputes and conflicts. We call on them to foster dialogue, understanding and fraternity among peoples, and to uphold the dignity of every man, woman and child, especially the poor, the vulnerable, the marginalized and those suffering from the violence of war and armed conflict.

God wills the peace and unity of our human family. The Olympic and Paralympic Games are a great symbol of such unity, for they bring individuals and peoples together in healthy competition and encourage our world to see in athletic competition a genuine path to peace, founded on personal discipline and commitment to teamwork in the pursuit of excellence.

United in this conviction, we appeal to world leaders to follow this path, for the benefit of every nation and people.

Thomas Bach
IOC President

Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça
Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education

Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell
Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family and Life

Cardinal Michael Czerny
Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development