Internet access is rare in many parts of the world. Yet, especially during a period of forced confinement, there is ongoing discussion regarding just how important it is to have a web connection.

Sport is the lifeblood of Inter Campus, but it’s not the only integral aspect. We provide our children with an education and transmit the values of football to them: being together, helping each other, and feeling part of a family. Precisely because of this, the project has not stopped despite activities on the pitch being interrupted. Every week, we involve youngsters and coaches in interactive video conferences, ensuring that distance remains only physical and not social, as is often said.

However, not everyone is able to take part: there are those who don’t have the technology (computers, phones, smartphones) and those who don’t have access to the web. And while our chats are a wonderful and relaxing moment—beautiful, but not fundamental—it’s clear to see that many fundamental Rights now depend on having an Internet connection. Freedom of information and expression, the Right to education and health, to name just a few. It may seem anachronistic where there’s a lack of basic necessities, but perhaps that’s no longer the case. The United Nations itself, through partnerships with civil society and the private sector, has stressed the importance of this issue and is actively working on it.

Inter Campus has always protected the Right to Play, but everything that children need to grow up with a smile on their faces becomes important to us too. We continue to look forward with caution, never losing the desire to return to the football pitch soon!