The Axiological Potential of Sport as a Means of Rehabilitation and National Identity in Wartime: A Comprehensive Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/PPS.2026.30.75361Keywords
war veterans' sports, public organizations of the Rivne region, ethical foundations of physical culture and sports, moral principles, humanistic sports environment, international competitions, sports managementAbstract
Background. The main problems of axiology and communication in sports are focused on the transformation of moral values, adaptation to the challenges of martial law and the transition to transparent business communications and the club system. The problem of interaction between state executive bodies and public associations and the population of the region remains poorly studied in the scientific literature, in addition, a systematic review does not synthesize the results of all aspects of sport as an important platform for shaping the image of the state, international communication and a way to draw attention to global social problems, which is especially relevant in war conditions. The need for a comprehensive consideration and systematization of these acute issues confirms the relevance of the research topic.
Aim consists in the theoretical justification of the use of sport as a means of affirming Ukrainian identity, patriotic education and countering propaganda in wartime, as well as an effective tool for the physical and psychological recovery of veterans and civilians.
Material and methods. The study is based on a systematic approach to clarifying theoretical, methodological and practical aspects of the axiological potential of sport as a means of rehabilitation and national identity in wartime. The following research methods were used in the work: document analysis, information-analytical, theoretical generalization, abstraction method, case study elements.
Results. In the activities of organizations, the emphasis is shifting from purely sporting achievements to general health promotion, physical training and psychological resilience as vital skills (as opposed to purely sporting results). Physical culture is becoming a tool for social adaptation and recovery, rather than just leisure or sport.
Conclusions. It is shown that the axiology (theory of values) of veterans' sports faces problems of rethinking the purpose of physical activity, the conflict between rehabilitation and performance approaches, as well as the difficulties of translating new meanings into society. Among the key value and practical challenges, the deficit of motivation, accessibility barriers and lack of specialized personnel stand out. It is established that local government plays an important role in creating favorable conditions for the development of sports infrastructure at the local level, and communities are of key importance in supporting the initiatives of public organizations, contributing to the formation of a favorable socio-cultural environment for physical activity and sports events. The implementation of the university's tasks for the development of veteran sports demonstrates the constructive, purposeful path of the higher education institution towards the establishment of humanistic values, psychological recovery and full social integration of defenders through the disclosure of the life-affirming and rehabilitation potential of physical culture.
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