The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has made significant changes to the Olympic Charter to emphasize its commitment to human rights during the 141st Session.
Strengthening Human Rights Commitments
The IOC Session endorsed additional wording related to respecting human rights, responding to a recommendation made by the executive board in September.
Fundamental Principles of Olympism
The revisions encompass the Fundamental Principles of Olympism, emphasizing an overarching commitment to human rights, particularly in Fundamental Principles of Olympism 1 and 4. These changes resulted from collaborative efforts by the Legal Affairs Commission and consultations with the Advisory Committee on Human Rights.
A Milestone for Human Rights
IOC President Thomas Bach hailed this amendment as a major step in the IOC’s dedication to human rights in the Olympic Movement. It sends a strong message to stakeholders and signifies an important milestone in the IOC’s human rights initiatives.
Alignment with Athlete Expression Guidelines
The IOC has also synchronized the Olympic Charter with the Guidelines on Athlete Expression, which were effectively applied during the Tokyo Olympic Games and the Beijing Winter Games. This adjustment clarifies that all competitors, team officials, and other team personnel at the Olympic Games are entitled to freedom of expression, in line with Olympic values and the Fundamental Principles of Olympism, following the Guidelines set by the IOC Executive Board.
Full Recognition for International Federation of American Football
The International Federation of American Football has been granted full recognition by the IOC.
Notable Absences
Two IOC members from Russia, Yelena Isinbayeva and Sharmil Tarpishchev, were absent from the session, citing their excuses for non-attendance.
Advocating for Human Rights
Human rights activist Peter Tatchell had claimed that Mumbai police prevented him from leaving his hotel room, as he planned to protest at the IOC Session. Tatchell has urged the IOC to consider the human rights records of potential host countries for the Olympic Games.
In response to these allegations, IOC Director of Communications Mark Adams suggested that criticism is inevitable, especially from those who may not support the IOC’s actions.
Salt Lake City’s Olympic Bid
During the session, it was revealed that Salt Lake City in the USA expressed a preference to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, while also remaining available for the 2030 Games.
