Ghent, Belgium, 5 June (Petra)-HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, Chair and Founder of Generations For Peace (GFP), accepted the inaugural Count Jacques Rogge Prize on behalf of the organisation at a ceremony at Ghent City Hall, in the presence of HRH Princess Zeina Al Feisal, HRH Princess Aisha bint Feisal, HRH Prince Laurent of Belgium, HRH Princess Louise of Belgium, and Countess Anne Rogge.
GFP was selected unanimously by the Jury as the first laureate of the award in recognition of its pioneering approach to using sport as a primary vehicle for peacebuilding and conflict transformation.
The organisation has distinguished itself through its vision of harnessing sport-based activities as educational tools to build resilience and strengthen social cohesion, supported by complementary programmes in dialogue, advocacy, empowerment, and media to create meaningful and sustainable social impact.
The Count Jacques Rogge Prize has been established by Panathlon International Belgium to commemorate the humanitarian and sporting legacy of Count Jacques Rogge, former International Olympic Committee President. It recognises organisations that place youth and inclusion at the heart of their work while embodying human values and delivering tangible social impact on the international stage.
Speaking at the ceremony, HRH Prince Feisal said: "Generations For Peace was founded on a deep belief that sport transcends competition and serves as a powerful tool for positive change and healing. Over nearly two decades, we have created lasting impact in the lives of more than 1.4 million people across 52 countries.
"We remain committed to continuing this humanitarian journey, reflecting the profound potential of sport to serve communities far beyond the podium." Founded in Jordan in 2007, GFP has become a global model for sustainable peacebuilding and the empowerment of local youth leaders. Since its inception, it has trained more than 30,000 young people worldwide, who have in turn transferred their knowledge and experience to their local communities, multiplying the organisation's impact and extending its reach to millions of children and adults.
These efforts have received broad international recognition, including official accreditation from the International Olympic Committee. GFP is currently ranked 24th among the world's top 200 non-governmental and social benefit organisations.
The Award Ceremony was presided over by Paul Standaert, President of Panathlon International Belgium, and Philippe Housiaux, President of the Count Jacques Rogge Prize Jury.
//Petra// AG
