Sport as a Tool for integration and social inclusion : the case study “EsportInclou” of the Sport Institute of Barcelona

The note intends to introduce some specific points of reflection about how the “diversity”, in various forms, can be reduced through physical activity and sport practice. First of all, the note will introduce the European framework on the topic concerning inclusion and inte- gration through sport and after will be observed the case study "EsportInclou" developed by the Sport Institute of Barcelona. Following the guidelines provided by the European Coun- cil, the city of Barcelona through the Barcelona EsportInclou plan, defines specific pro- grams and actions that are able to help the integration and inclusion of those people who are affected by physical, intellectual disorders, auditory, visual and / or mental living in the neighbourhoods. The Barcelona EsportInclou program emphasizes the importance of defin- ing a new idea of transformation. The plan tried to develop changes through the conception of the services offered without any type of limitation and that can favour the reduction of barriers between subjects. Finally, the contribution observes how the continuity of the fi- nancial interventions established new objectives included in the planning of the three-year period 2018-2021 (+21% M€).