Respect is a social responsibility programme launched in 2008 by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). Its main objective is to work towards unity and respect across gender, race, religion and ability.[1]
The Respect project at UEFA EURO 2012 tournament had four main stands: fighting against racism, increasing and improving access for fans with disabilities, promoting health through physical activity, and improving intercultural dialogue between fans.[1] The ambassadors for the campaign were Italian referee Pierluigi Collina and Dutch footballer Clarence Seedorf. The campaign was mainly visible through TV spot which was broadcast at half-time during matches, as well as on screens at the stadiums. Part of the programme was in co-operation with the Football Against Racism in Europe network.[2] It was entitled RESPECT Diversity and it was co-ordinated by the Warsaw-based NEVER AGAIN Association in Poland and Ukraine.[3] In addition part of the programma is in co-operation with the not for profit organisation Euro-Sportring. Every player and the management of the team will be honoured on the last match day with special attention to UEFA Respect.[4]
The UEFA Respect Fair Play ranking includes as criteria such components as respect to the opponent and the referee as well as behaviour of the fans and the team officials.