Діяльність Федерації футболу учасників АТО як засобу соціальної реабілітації учасників бойових дій

Abstract

The article examines the activities of the Federation of ATO Participants’ Football as an effective means of social, psychological, and physical rehabilitation of war veterans in Ukraine. The relevance of the study is determined by the growing number of combat veterans and the need for their successful integration into peaceful civilian life, which requires complementary approaches beyond traditional state support mechanisms. Football, as an accessible and popular sport, has significant potential for improving physical health, emotional stability, teamwork skills, and social engagement among veterans. In this context, the Federation of ATO Participants’ Football represents a successful example of combining sports activities with social support and rehabilitation goals. The purpose of the study is to analyze the establishment, organizational foundations, and main areas of activity of the Federation, as well as to determine its role in the social and physical rehabilitation of combat veterans. The research is based on the analysis and generalization of information sources, historical and descriptive methods, and a systemic approach. The results show that the Federation, founded in 2015, is a nationwide veterans’ public organization that unites former combatants through football. Its key projects include the All-Ukrainian League of ATO Participants, the Heroes of ATO Cup, and other national and regional tournaments, involving dozens of teams from across Ukraine, as well as international veteran teams. These activities contribute to veterans’ physical recovery, psychological well-being, social integration, and the development of an active veterans’ community. It is concluded that the Federation of ATO Participants’ Football plays an important role in the system of social rehabilitation of war veterans in Ukraine, demonstrating the effectiveness of sport as a tool for reintegration and the formation of a positive social image of veterans.