106 It was a pioneer document: when it was adopted in 1992, the European Sports Charter was one of the first international agreements to formally recognise sport as a human right and a social good that should be accessible to everyone. THE RIGHT TO SPORT International laws The right to participate in sport and physical activity is widely recognised as an important part of human development, health, and well-being. At an international level, several laws and declarations emphasise this right for all people, regardless of age, gender, or background: sport is not just a leisure activity but a fundamental right and a tool for social inclusion. Here are a few. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations in 1948, promotes the right to rest and leisure, including participation in cultural and recreational activities. The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) recognises the right of everyone to take part in cultural life and enjoy the benefits of scientific progress, which includes sports and physical education. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), adopted in 1989, explicitly states that children have the right to engage in play, recreation, cultural and artistic activities appropriate to their age. to align: allinearsi framework: quadro normativo 198 LAW, ECONOMY, AND FSL It highlights the importance of ensuring access to sport and physical education as part of the holistic development of children, promoting physical health, social skills, and personal growth. European regulations and sports rights Within Europe, the right to sport is also recognised and promoted through several legal frameworks and policies. For example, the European Sports Charter , adopted by the Council of Europe, explicitly encourages member states to promote the right to sport for everyone, highlighting principles such as equal opportunities, non-discrimination, and the importance of sport in education and social integration. European institutions have also developed programmes and funding initiatives to increase participation in sport, especially among disadvantaged groups and youth. Sport rights in the Italian Constitution In the Italian Constitution, although the word sport is not explicitly mentioned, several articles underline the right to health (Article 32), the protection of workers (Article 35), and the promotion of culture and education (Article 33). These provisions have been interpreted to include access to sports and physical education as vital components of a healthy and educated society. Furthermore, Sport Law No. 91/1981 promotes sports activities as a social good and encourages the development of sports at all levels. The law emphasises the value of sport for personal growth, socialisation, and public health, supporting programmes that make sport accessible to everyone. Italy s legal framework aligns with international and European principles, ensuring that sport remains an essential right and opportunity for all citizens.