Global Athlete: Ban on 'kneeling' at Olympic and Paralympic Games is a violation of human rights

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The recent statement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) that athletes who 'kneel' in solidarity with the anti-racist movement will face bans is clearly a violation of human rights, according to the Global Athlete movement of athletes.

"Athletes have for too long had to choose between competing in silence and believing in what is right. It is time for change. Every athlete must be empowered to use their platform, gestures, and voice. Athlete silence has led to oppression, silence has led to abuse, and silence has led to discrimination in sport," stated the Global Athlete association, which brings together Olympians from around the world, Reuters reports.

Reuters reminds of "Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter" that "no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.".

Athletes who violate the rules are subject to disciplinary action, and the IOC issued guidelines in January clarifying that sanctions include a ban on kneeling.

"The current leadership of the global sports movement has put athletes in a powerless position. Athletes rarely get the opportunity to express opinions on rules and the development of sport, despite being the most important participants. Without athletes, sport does not exist. It is hypocritical to tell athletes to stick to their sport and stay out of politics, while the IOC and IPC consistently act in politics for their own benefit," believes Global Athlete.

"Athletes dedicate years of their lives to qualify for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. If athletes want to speak out, respecting other rights and freedoms detailed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the IOC should accept diverse opinions," the statement reads.

The IOC recently stated that it respects the rights of athletes to express their feelings and opinions regarding the death of African American George Floyd.

"The IOC fully respects that many athletes have made statements on social media. That is their individual right and it is a right that we fully support," said an IOC spokesperson.

Sports organizations, including the American Olympic and Paralympic Committee, have also expressed solidarity "with all those fighting for good.".

The President of the German Olympic Sports Confederation, Alfons Hoermann, in an interview with ZDF, supported athletes in "raising their voice.".