The Third UN Games Opened in New York on the Initiative of Turkmenistan
ORIENT | Sports and Diplomacy. A major event in global sports diplomacy took place on June 12, when the opening ceremony of the 2026 United Nations Games was held via videoconference. This large-scale event brought together numerous representatives of UN Member States, staff of the Secretariat, and specialized agencies of the international organization, marking the official start of the third Games.
This unique international initiative was established by special UN General Assembly resolution 78/325, adopted specifically on the initiative of Turkmenistan. The document officially recognized these Games as a crucial multilateral platform for sports diplomacy, actively promoting global peace, creative cooperation, and trusting mutual understanding among the peoples of the world.
Vepa Khadzhiev, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the UN and Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Games, addressed the opening ceremony participants with a welcoming address. In his speech, the Turkmen diplomat emphasized the importance of sport as a universal and accessible tool for strengthening mutual trust, sincere friendship, and deep respect between states.
Rosemary McLean, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chief Executive Officer of the United Nations Staff Pension Fund, also addressed the participants, emphasizing the indispensable role of sporting events in promoting the principles of inclusiveness, solidarity, and shared well-being within the vast, multinational United Nations community. During the ceremony, attendees were treated to a spectacular video presentation featuring highlights from last year's UN Games, which brought together over 800 athletes from over 100 countries and international organizations.
The history of this successful project began quite recently—the UN Games were first organized in 2024 thanks to Turkmenistan's far-sighted foreign policy strategy. The inaugural edition attracted over 300 athletes representing 85 countries and 18 international agencies, competing in eight sporting disciplines. In such a short period of time, the initiative has become one of the most visible and prestigious sports diplomacy events in the United Nations system.
The program of the current 2026 competitions has significantly expanded and now includes exciting tournaments in football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, pickleball, chess, running, and yoga. These competitions traditionally bring together diplomats, international civil servants, and their families in sporting arenas, creating a wonderful informal environment for developing strong friendships and vibrant intercultural dialogue.
The awards ceremony and official closing ceremony of the 2026 UN Games are scheduled for July 17 and will take place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
