At the Olympic Games, athletes are allowed to express their opinions, at least to a limited extent. This was announced by the IOC. However, there are still topics and occasions that are taboo.
Athletes at the Tokyo Summer Olympics (July 23 to August 8) are permitted limited protests or political expressions of opinion. As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Friday, the Executive of the Order of the Ring has relaxed the controversial Rule 50 on the recommendation of the IOC Athletes’ Commission.
Speaking to the media, at press conferences, in the mixed zone, at team meetings, on social media channels, or before the start of a competition, Activists are permitted to express opinions provided they are “consistent with the fundamental principles of the Olympic Movement, not directly or indirectly directed against persons, countries, organizations and/or their dignity and are not disruptive”.
No demonstrations during official ceremonies
Expressions of opinion at official ceremonies, such as award ceremonies or at the opening and closing ceremonies, on the field and in the Olympic Village, are expressly prohibited. “That was the wish of a large majority of the athletes in our global survey,” the IOC said. More than 3,500 activists from 185 countries took part in this.
If a protest is deemed disruptive or a violation of fundamental Olympic principles, the threats include disqualification or the loss of medals.
“Athletes are expected to express their opinions with respect for applicable laws, Olympic values and their fellow athletes. It should be recognized that any behavior and/or expression of opinion that promotes discrimination, hatred, hostility or the potential for depicting or signaling violence, on whatever basis, is contrary to the fundamental principles of Olympism,” the IOC said.
Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter states that any “political, religious or racial demonstration or propaganda” is not permitted. The global union of professional footballers, FIFPRO, recently spoke out in favor of athletes’ right to take a stand on issues of social justice or positive social change “wherever they choose to do so”.