Sport as a means to promote intercultural and interreligious dialogue

Increased migration flows bring with it also increased religious diversity in destination countries. Luxembourg is a case in point. Luxembourg´s population has increased by 81% since 1981, with the proportion of foreign nationals rising steadily from 26,3% in 1981 to 47,4% in 2023 (Statec, 2023). Whilst the early immigration waves originated mainly from predominantly catholic countries of origin (i.e., Italy and Portugal), immigrants are now more heterogeneous, resulting in more religious diversity. Muslims now form the second-largest faith group in Luxembourg. Whilst Muslim residents feel well-integrated, Islamophobia is also present in Luxembourg (OIL, 2019).
We will present InterFaith, a small Luxembourg-based ASBL that promotes intercultural and interreligious understanding, using sport as a bridge. Our main event, the InterFaith weekend, is tied to the annual Luxembourg Night Marathon. We bring together local and international participants representing all world religions, but also humanists, and agnostics in running for a more peaceful world. International participants stay with host families in Luxembourg who also take part in the program. Race preparation, physical exertion, and reaching the finishing line are central, unifying targets for all. Apart from the race, we build spaces for encounters and trust-building through fixed program components. These include a welcoming event, the visit to a faith group in Luxembourg where this group is introduced and dialogue promoted, the joint organization of the prayer for peace ahead of the race, and our prize-giving ceremony. Individual sporting achievements are celebrated here, and exchange and togetherness are promoted.
InterFaith is one example of bringing together people from Luxembourg´s diverse population and visitors representing different faiths. Over the years, friendships across different faith groups have been established, furthering tolerance and understanding. Yet, it takes time and a dedicated team to make it happen. Theoretical and practical insights will be provided.