UN applauds Pakistan's 'football for mental health' initiative

Pakistan's Football for Mental Health initiative has received international recognition at the United Nations, with global leaders praising the Pakistan Football Federation's (PFF) efforts to use football as a platform to promote mental health awareness, empower young people, and drive positive social change.

The recognition came during the UN's high-level forum, "One World, One Game, One Goal: Football as a Catalyst for Youth Mental Health and Well-being," jointly organised by the United Nations in Pakistan, the UN Youth Office, and UNESCO.

Representing Pakistan, Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani presented the country's experience with the initiative, highlighting how football has been used to raise awareness about mental health and strengthen youth engagement across communities.

Addressing the forum, Gilani said the programme has reached thousands of children across Pakistan, trained more than 300 Youth Mental Health Ambassadors, and engaged over 80 current and former Pakistan international footballers in promoting mental health awareness.

"Using football as a tool for mental health did not just inspire us, it transformed us," Gilani said, adding that the federation's role extends beyond developing talented players to nurturing healthy, resilient, and responsible citizens.

Launched in partnership with the United Nations in Pakistan and the UN Youth Office, the Football for Mental Health initiative has become one of the PFF's flagship social programmes, demonstrating how sport can create meaningful and measurable social impact.

Gilani also expressed hope for greater international cooperation, saying Pakistan's experience shows that football can serve as a powerful vehicle for positive change and global collaboration.

Representing the Government of Pakistan, Prime Minister's Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting football and sports as tools for healthy lifestyles, youth development, and community engagement.

During the event, he also showcased Pakistan's contribution to world football by presenting the Trionda, the official match ball of the FIFA World Cup, which is manufactured in Pakistan.

Pakistan's delegation also included Pakistan Women's National Futsal Team player Sibal Fawad Tariq, highlighting the growing role of athletes in promoting mental health awareness and youth empowerment through sport.