ABSTRACT
This book aimed to provide answers to the question of how sport has contributed to development in emerging nations. The cases in the book have indicated how sport has served to bridge social and political divisions and fostered the development of national identities. Increased public investment in sport, along with increased commercialisation and professionalisation of the sport industry, is an indicator of the rapid economic development of these nations. While positive impacts from hosting mega-events have been highlighted, there are a number of complexities and challenges that have mediated the legacies of these events to varying degrees, drawing attention to the need for a more critical assessment. A set of potential solutions to counter the most pressing obstacles to achieving these aims are discussed, most notably: the need for good governance and accountability within the public sectors for sport policy development and implementation; improved governance and accountability through systematic and rigorous, evidence-based evaluations of policies and programmes; public, private and third-sector collaborations; innovation for sustainability through energy-efficient sport and event practices; and social inclusion and transformation through improved racial and gender representation in sport. A research gap is identified in the area of technological advancement and environmental sustainability and sport in these nations.
