Cross-cutting themes
Sport and physical activity
Health Enhancing Physical Activity has long been viewed as separate from Sport. Some have focused narrowly on walking or biking as uniquely relevant forms of health enhancing physical activity. At the same time, Sport has been viewed mostly in the light of recurring tournaments and events in standardized disciplines. The trends in urban areas however show a complex variety of activities and physical movement that transcends traditional borders. Overcoming city obstacles as in trendy Parkour is just one example of such tendencies. In which ways will the urban setting and new trends in physical movement force stakeholders to re-think their strategies? And what will be the sport and physical activity trends of the future?
Health
The health of urban populations can be negatively influenced by many factors, not least sedentary lifestyles. International and national stakeholders such as the EU, WHO and national Ministries of Health are placing more focus on promoting healthier lifestyles through physical activity. The EU “Health Strategy White Paper” and WHO “Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health” both point to health enhancing physical activity as a means to achieving healthier societies. Can cooperation between sport NGOs, municipalities and other sectors lead to improved health for urban citizens? How can individual behaviour and social associations be used in preventing sedentary lifestyles?
Citizenship
Cities around the world are facing increased individualism as well as serious challenges with respect to the social integration of immigrants, less privileged groups and social minorities in civil society activities. At the same time, the concept of citizenship is changing: Active participation in civic life takes new forms and involves new organisations and sectors. How will urban dwellers be able to contribute to truly active civil societies through physical activity and sport in the future? What is the future of voluntary engagement in citizenship activities in increasingly individualised societies? What are the new roles of city administrations and civil society organisations in challenges related to integration and social inclusion?
