Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) is expanding a program first developed by amateur club Zeeburgia, offering refugees the chance to train as football match officials. This initiative uses football to promote social inclusion and build connections in local communities, especially after a refugee centre opened near the Amsterdam-based club. Participants strengthen social ties, improve language skills, and grow their networks through refereeing activities.
Zeeburgia received the KNVB's MVP Award for this project’s contributions to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in football. Several refugee referees from the program now officiate at higher levels across the Netherlands, supported by mentors such as Abbas Faron, who emphasizes football’s universal language and the program's impact on integration regardless of Dutch language proficiency.
Since refugee reception centres and residents may move, referees can transfer their skills to clubs throughout the Netherlands. One participant, Mido Hibatullah, a former professional player in Syria, said refereeing helped him adapt to Dutch culture and broaden his social network from amateur to professional levels, with continued instructor support.
The UEFA Unity EURO Cup also showcases football’s power to unite, with teams comprising male and female refugees and amateur players from various European countries.