The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has issued a ban on political protests by athletes ahead of the 2020 Tokyo games.
Releasing a three-page guideline, the IOC stipulated that athletes are prohibited from participating in political demonstrations while on the field of play, in the Olympic Village, and during medal and official ceremonies. However, they are permitted to express political opinions during press interviews outside the Village, in meetings, and on traditional and social media channels.
The IOC explained in a statement, “We believe that the example we set by competing with the world’s best while living in harmony in the Olympic Village is a uniquely positive message to send to an increasingly divided world. This is why it is important, on both a personal and a global level, that we keep the venues, the Olympic Village, and the podium neutral and free from any form of political, religious or ethnic demonstrations.”
The distinction between “expressing views” and “protests and demonstrations” was emphasized by the IOC. Examples of protests include displaying political messaging, making gestures of a political nature, and refusal to follow the Ceremonies protocol.
According to the IOC, disciplinary action will be taken on a case-by-case basis if an athlete fails to adhere to the guidelines, in order to limit any “divisive disruption.”
The rules are enforced by the IOC in order to maintain a global focus on athletes’ performances and on international unity and harmony.
“The mission of the Olympic Games to bring the entire world together can facilitate the understanding of different views, but this can be accomplished only if everybody respects this diversity,” the IOC stated.
The opening ceremony for the Tokyo Games is scheduled for July 24.