Mr. Lemke’s presentation was part of a panel on the “Swimming for All – Swimming for Life” programme that has been initiated by FINA together with the UNOSDP, as well as other international organisations.

 Having previously spoken about the programme at its launch at the FINA World Aquatics Convention in Doha in December 2014, Mr. Lemke took the opportunity to give further insight on the programme and its developments and how they contribute to community and sustainable development.

 Reaffirming the importance of swimming as a fundamental life skill that all people, especially children, should have the right and opportunity to learn, the Special Adviser reminded that many children around the world face difficult situations and barriers that prevent them from participating in sport and learning such basic skills. Unintentional drowning causes 372,000 deaths per year according to the World Health Organisation.

 To emphasise the role that swimming can play in community development, Mr. Lemke identified the recently adopted Sustainable Development Goals for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as specific areas that swimming can make a significant contribution towards.

 “As part of our Development strategy, the United Nations is paying a lot of attention to Sport. As said by the UN Secretary General, ‘Sport is not a luxury’; in the case of Swimming, it’s not only a vital skill, but it is also a funny and healthy physical activity”, Mr. Lemke said.

 The UNOSDP has been running its Youth Leadership Programme since 2012, with the aim of empowering young leaders in the field of sport for development and peace, in which swimming has featured consistently and prominently thanks to the support of FINA.

 The Special Adviser also encouraged governments, the international sporting community and the private sector to continue their investment and cooperation in swimming lessons, drowning prevention and awareness.

 Mr. Lemke expressed his enthusiasm for the Swimming for All – Swimming for Life programme, and reiterated his continued commitment to advocate for its implementation worldwide.

 To stay up-to-date with the work of the Special Adviser and UNOSDP, follow the UNOSDP News and Events webpage, Facebook, and Twitter accounts.

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