At the 75th FIFA Congress held in Asunción, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña emphasized his country's economic, social, and cultural growth, claiming it has achieved the fastest growth in Latin America over the past 35 years. Peña highlighted macroeconomic stability and poverty reduction, asserting that football plays a crucial role as a public policy tool by promoting teamwork and protecting children from street life, thus preventing drug addiction, violence, and crime.
Peña, a member of the Colorado Party, expressed strong pride in describing Paraguay as an emerging global sports hub and its capital, Asunción, as the center of South American football. He emphasized, "There is no human activity that moves as much as football," adding, "It's not just football, it has never been just football." President Peña argued that football plays a vital role in keeping children off the streets and protecting them from drugs and crime.
"Paraguay is experiencing a unique economic, social, and cultural boom. We have been the fastest-growing country in the region for the past 35 years, and many people have been lifted out of poverty," Peña stated. He also pledged, "We are ready to become a true global sports center," appealing for international support.
President Peña's remarks are interpreted as highlighting Paraguay's economic growth and social development in recent years. According to World Bank data, Paraguay has recorded steady economic growth since the mid-2000s, driven particularly by the agricultural sector and energy exports. Additionally, the expansion of government social welfare policies has significantly contributed to poverty reduction.
Paraguay is known for its passionate enthusiasm for football, consistently achieving good results in both domestic leagues and international competitions. Peña's emphasis on football as a tool for addressing social issues is closely related to this background. In fact, numerous studies have shown that football can contribute to preventing juvenile delinquency and promoting social integration by providing healthy activity opportunities for young people, fostering a sense of community, and presenting positive role models.
Peña's designation of Paraguay as an "emerging global sports hub" is seen as expressing his commitment to attracting future international sports events and developing related industries. Paraguay is geographically located in the center of South America and is striving to expand its sports infrastructure based on a relatively stable political environment and economic growth potential. In particular, its participation in the joint bid to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup can be understood in this context.
However, some argue for a cautious approach to President Peña's claims. There are criticisms pointing out the lack of clear information regarding the specific basis, comparison countries, and growth indicators for the claim of "highest growth in Latin America for 35 years." Additionally, it is argued that the persistent high levels of poverty and social inequality, despite Paraguay's economic growth, should not be overlooked. According to IMF data, Paraguay's poverty rate remains high compared to neighboring countries, and income inequality remains a challenge.
Nevertheless, President Peña's remarks at the FIFA Congress are seen as an important opportunity to communicate Paraguay's positive changes and confidence in its future to the international community. It remains to be seen whether Paraguay can sustain its economic growth, address social challenges, and enhance its status as a sports powerhouse. In particular, achieving the "true global sports center" promised by President Peña will require substantial investment, policy support, and active cooperation with the international community.
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