Sport as a tool for social justice: an analysis of critical pedagogy and community capacity building in Central America

This study examines the role of sport in promoting social justice within sport-for-development programmes across Central America. Recognising sport's potential as a tool for addressing social issues and fostering equality, the research explores how it can contribute to building equitable and democratic societies when integrated with educational and participatory frameworks. The primary aim is to assess how sport can be effectively used to promote social justice through critical pedagogy and community capacity building. A qualitative approach was employed, focusing on five sport-for-development initiatives in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with young participants, coaches, administrative staff, and community leaders, and analysed using thematic coding to identify key themes. The findings reveal that sport, combined with critical pedagogy, significantly enhances critical thinking, dialogue, and a sense of agency among participants. It also boosts personal development by improving self-esteem, discipline, and teamwork – skills crucial for civic engagement. Additionally, sport fosters social cohesion by uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds and promoting community resilience. However, the study identifies challenges such as inadequate facilities, lack of resources, and cultural barriers, particularly affecting women and girls, which must be addressed to maximise the impact of these programmes.