Leave No One Behind: Social Sustainability through Sport in Local Authorities - The Case of Spor İstanbul
Journal of Sport for All and Recreation, cilt.7, sa.3, ss.567-577, 2025 (Hakemli Dergi)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 7 Sayı: 3
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Dergi Adı: Journal of Sport for All and Recreation
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: SportDiscus
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.567-577
- Yozgat Bozok Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study examines the contribution of Spor Istanbul Inc. to social sustainability goals through sport at the level of local authorities. Using a qualitative research design, it analyses institutional reports published between 2019 and 2025 using content analysis. The findings demonstrate that sport operates as more than a recreational activity; it functions as a strategic policy tool advancing social sustainability by fostering inclusion, health, education, and equality, directly addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Spor Istanbul’s initiatives are particularly aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Operating with a public service mission rather than pursuing profit, the organisation evaluates the societal outcomes of its services through Social Return on Investment (SROI) reports. From this perspective, sport is positioned not only as physical activity but also as a strategic instrument for enhancing social well-being. By foregrounding this case, the study contributes to international debates on the governance of sport, demonstrating how municipal-level initiatives can embed social sustainability in practice and serve as models for other cities worldwide.