Paris 2024 Olympic Games – Part Two
Navigating Legal Challenges: An In-Depth Review of Paris' Preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games
In the second of a three-part series on the legal challenges of the 2024 Olympic Games, Yasin Patel and Caitlin Haberlin-Chambers delve into the complex legal challenges that have emerged throughout the course of the Paris 2024 Olympics. This segment aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the various legal hurdles encountered by organizers, athletes, and stakeholders as they navigate the multifaceted landscape of this major international sporting event.
Yasin and Caitlin explore the implications of these legal issues on the smooth operation of the Games, examining how they affect the stakeholders involved, including local authorities, sponsors, and the international sporting community. Furthermore, it will highlight the strategies employed to address these challenges, the legal precedents being set, and the potential long-term impacts on future Olympic Games.
Through detailed case studies and expert commentary, this instalment will shed light on the intricacies of the legal landscape surrounding the Paris 2024 Olympics, offering insights into the broader implications for global sports governance and the management of major international events.
I. A History: Emerging Issues and Threats
Hosting the Olympic Games is a monumental undertaking that brings both prestige and significant challenges. However, host countries have faced various difficulties, ranging from security concerns and political tensions to logistical nightmares and financial burdens.
The 1972 Munich Olympics: A Turning Point in Olympic Security
The 1972 Munich Olympics, meant to symbolize peace and unity, were marred by one of the most tragic and significant terrorist attacks in the history of the Games: the “Munich Massacre”. This catastrophic event not only shook the world but also fundamentally changed how security was perceived and managed in international sporting events.
On 5 September 1972, eight terrorists from the Palestinian group Black September infiltrated the Olympic Village. Their target was the Israeli Olympic team. The terrorists were able to enter the athletes' quarters with alarming ease. The attackers took eleven members of the Israeli team hostage, demanding the release of 234 Palestinians and non-Arabs jailed in Israel, along with two German insurgents held in West German prisons. The West German authorities, unprepared for such a situation, struggled to manage the crisis. Their attempts to rescue the hostages culminated in a disastrous operation at the Fürstenfeldbruck airbase, where the terrorists and hostages were being transferred to an aircraft. The rescue attempt resulted in a firefight that led to the deaths of all eleven Israeli hostages, five of the terrorists, and one West German police officer.
The immediate aftermath of the Munich Massacre was a period of intense grief and outrage. The Olympic Games were suspended for 34 hours. The Munich Massacre exposed severe flaws in the security protocols of the Olympic Games. The open and welcoming nature of the Olympic Village, intended to symbolize international friendship and peace, inadvertently made it an easy target for terrorists. The lack of armed security personnel and the insufficient training of local police forces in handling terrorist situations were starkly highlighted.
The Munich Massacre left an indelible mark on the Olympic Games and the wider world of international sports. It underscored the vulnerabilities inherent in large, high-profile events and the need for comprehensive security measures to safeguard participants and spectators. The lessons learned from Munich have continued to influence the planning and execution of security at not just the Olympics but other major international events as well. In addition to transforming security protocols, the tragedy also sparked debates on the intersection of politics and sports.
Moscow 1980 and Los Angeles 1984 – A Series of Political Boycotts
The 1980 Moscow Olympics were profoundly impacted by a major boycott led by the United States in response to the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in December 1979. President Jimmy Carter announced that the US would not participate in the Games unless Soviet troops withdrew from Afghanistan. This stance was part of a broader strategy to exert international pressure on the Soviet Union and to condemn its military actions. The boycott saw participation from over 60 countries, including key allies of the US such as Canada, West Germany, Japan, and China. These nations either did not send any athletes or competed under the Olympic flag instead of their national flags.
In a tit-for-tat response, the Soviet Union and its allies, including East Germany, Cuba, and several Eastern Bloc countries, boycotted the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. This decision was officially justified by the Soviet Union as a reaction to "anti-Soviet hysteria" and security concerns in the US, though it was widely perceived as a direct retaliation for the 1980 boycott.
The absence of these countries in Moscow and Los Angeles Games significantly altered the competitive landscape of both Games. In Moscow, the number of participating nations dropped to 80, the lowest since the 1956 Melbourne Games. Many events saw reduced competition levels, with some of the world's top athletes not present. This diminished the overall quality and international appeal of the Games, which are traditionally seen as a global gathering of the best athletes. In Los Angeles, key events, particularly in sports like gymnastics, athletics, and weightlifting, saw the withdrawal of some of the strongest contenders, leading to a skewed medal distribution and less intense competition in certain disciplines.
Both the Moscow 1980 and Los Angeles 1984 Olympics highlight the complex interplay between sports and politics. The boycotts of these Games illustrate how geopolitical conflicts can overshadow the Olympic ideal of unity and peace. However, these challenges also led to significant innovations, particularly in how the Games are funded and managed. The legacy of these boycotts continues to shape the Olympic movement, reminding us of the ever-present influence of global politics on international sports.
Atlanta 1996 - Bombing and Logistical Issues
The 1996 Atlanta Olympics, intended to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic Games, were beset by various challenges that tested the resilience and preparedness of the organizers. These issues ranged from logistical inefficiencies to a devastating terrorist attack, significantly impacting the perception and execution of the event.
The most significant challenge of the 1996 Games was the Centennial Olympic Park bombing. On July 27, a pipe bomb exploded in the park, which was intended to be a central gathering place for visitors. The bomb killed two people and injured over 100 others. The bombing shocked the world and raised serious concerns about the adequacy of security measures at the Games. The incident exposed vulnerabilities in the security apparatus designed to protect such a high-profile international event. In the immediate aftermath, there was widespread panic and confusion. The organizers faced intense scrutiny over how the bomb was able to be planted and detonated in such a central location.
The Centennial Olympic Park bombing had a profound and lasting impact on the security protocols for future Olympic Games and other major international events.
Beijing 2008 - Human Rights and Pollution
The Beijing 2008 Olympics was mired in controversy related to China's human rights practices and environmental issues. The international community expressed significant concern over China's human rights record in the lead-up to the Games. One of the primary issues was the situation in Tibet, where protests against Chinese rule and subsequent crackdowns drew global attention. Additionally, concerns were raised about press freedom and the repression of dissenting voices within China, leading to widespread calls for greater transparency and human rights reforms.
The severe air pollution in Beijing was another major challenge associated with the 2008 Olympics. The city's air quality was notoriously poor, with high levels of particulate matter and other pollutants posing substantial health risks to athletes and visitors. In response to these concerns, the Chinese government implemented a series of emergency measures to temporarily reduce pollution during the Games. These measures included restrictions on industrial activity, the suspension of construction projects, and temporary bans on certain types of vehicles. Despite these efforts, air quality remained a pressing issue, with ongoing concerns about the long-term health implications for those exposed to the pollution.
While Beijing 2008 Olympics were noted for their spectacular presentation and the impressive development of infrastructure, they were marred by serious concerns over human rights and the environment.
Sochi 2014 - Security and Corruption
The Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics were overshadowed by significant security concerns, primarily due to threats from Islamist militants operating in the region. The Russian government undertook extensive measures to ensure the safety of athletes and visitors, implementing a high level of security presence both within and around the Olympic venues. This included the deployment of thousands of police officers, military personnel, and intelligence agents. Despite these efforts, the heightened security measures and the underlying threats contributed to an atmosphere of unease and heightened scrutiny.
Environmental concerns were also a significant issue. The development of Sochi’s Olympic infrastructure led to extensive environmental damage, including the destruction of natural habitats and the pollution of local waterways. Critics argued that the rush to complete the projects came at the expense of the region’s ecological health, which was exacerbated by the lack of adequate environmental oversight and regulation.
The combination of these factors cast a long shadow over the Sochi Winter Olympics, prompting widespread debate and criticism both domestically and internationally.
Conclusion
Throughout history, host countries have encountered a wide array of challenges when organizing the Olympic Games. From security threats and political boycotts to financial strains and health crises, these events have demonstrated the resilience and adaptability required to host one of the world's largest sporting events.
Each Games leaves a legacy of lessons learned, contributing to the ongoing evolution of how the Olympics are planned and executed to mitigate such challenges in the future.
II. Security Threats During the Games
As Paris prepared for the 2024 Olympic Games, a host of legal and security challenges emerged, putting the city’s readiness and resilience to the test. Part one of this series explored the legal complexities encountered by the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee in their preparations for the Games. The second part of this series shifts the spotlight to the ongoing legal and security challenges that have emerged as the Games progress.
The security of Heads of States and Israeli athletes with the geopolitical ramifications of the Israel-Hamas conflict, were just a few of the critical issues that have tested Paris' preparedness. These incidents underscore the persistent and evolving nature of security threats in an interconnected world, emphasizing the need for adaptive and comprehensive strategies to safeguard the integrity of global sporting events.
Security Threat: Heads of States
Security at the Olympic Games is a major priority, especially when it comes to protecting heads of state and other high-profile dignitaries in attendance. The convergence of global leaders at such a high-profile event presents unique security challenges, necessitating comprehensive and stringent measures.
On 27 July 2024, President Emmanual Macron hosted a reception at the Elysée Palace for heads of state and government, and royalty. To ensure the security of such delegates, France implemented extensive security protocols to ensure the safety of all attendees. This included coordinating with international security agencies, employing advanced surveillance technology, and deploying thousands of security personnel. Particular attention is given to protecting heads of state and government leaders, with personalized security details and secure transport arrangements.
Whilst no Russian officials attended, as the nation was banned by the IOC, the Israeli delegation received enhanced protection due to heightened tensions following the October 7 attack by Hamas and subsequent events.
The attendance of Isaac Herzog, the Israeli President, at the Opening Ceremony and during the Games, despite protests from Tehran, represents the extent of this security concern. Upon his arrival, Herzog was unable to immediately disembark the plane at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport due to an “unspecified security concern” following a sighting of a suspicious individual on a nearby rooftop. Herzog was held up to 40 minutes before he could disembark. Such precautions proved to be an effective security measure by identifying and neutralizing potential threats.
However, protecting the safety of a head of state extends beyond employing foot soldiers on the ground; monitoring online content was also a measure France had to endure.
On 29 July 2024, French authorities arrested a 15-year-old boy on suspicion of threatening President Herzog online. According to the report, authorities were alerted to the threat via the French government’s Pharos website, on which users can report illegal online content. Whether these threats were real or not, one will ever know, however the French authorities were unwilling to take any risks.
Security Threat: Israel
During the Games, the security of Israeli athletes was a persistent concern. There were fears of significant anti-Israeli demonstrations at events featuring Israeli competitors. Bach assured the Israeli delegation that there would be “special measures” taken regarding the security of Israeli athletes. This included the 88 Israeli athletes at the Games being subjected to round-the-clock protection from French security services. Israel, also concerned with their own athletes, doubled security budget for Olympics.
Whilst the meaning of the Games represent unity in sport, this does not distract the geo-political issues ongoing at home. During the Games, on 31 July 2024, Hamas’ political leader, Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran. Haniyeh’s death came just hours after Israel claimed it killed Hezbollah’s top military commander, Fuad Shukur, in an airstrike. These deaths were a major development, throwing the region into an unpredictable and dangerous phase, threatening the US leading a global diplomatic effort to prevent a full-blown regional conflict. At the Games, security around Israel’s Olympic team in Paris were subsequently tightened. Armed agents had already been sent to France to support local policing, with an elite Paris anti-terror unit overseeing events featuring Israeli competitors.
The Israel-Hamas conflict also posed challenges to the IOC's Rule 50.2, which prohibits political demonstrations at Olympic venues. Rule 50.2 of the Olympic Charter unequivocally states: “No kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.” This prohibition extends to expressions during official ceremonies, including Olympic medal ceremonies, opening and closing ceremonies, as well as within the Olympic Village. However, according to the recently amended (2023) Rule 40.2 of the Olympic Charter: “All competitions, team officials or other team personnel in the Olympic Games shall enjoy freedom of expression in keeping with the Olympic values and the Fundamental Principles of Olympism, and in accordance with the Guidelines determined by the IOC Executive Board.”
In a notable stance, the IOC allowed Waseem Abu Sal, Palestinian boxer and one of the two flag-bearers for the Palestine delegation during the river parade, to wear a white shirt embroidered with images of warplanes dropping missiles over children playing sports. Abu Sal said that “This shirt represents the current picture in Palestine.”
Jibril Rajoub, president of the Palestine Olympic Committee, checked with the local organising committee of the Paris Olympics to see if Abu Sal’s shirt contravened Olympic regulations. He stated that “It’s a message of peace. It’s a message to attract attention. This is anti-war, against killing. This abides with the Olympic Charter.”
Palestine’s arrival during the Opening Ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the 400 Palestinian athletes who have been killed since 7 October 2023, according to the Palestine NOC, and of ongoing geopolitical issues, with Palestinian swimmer Yazan Al-Bawwab stating “We’re not treated like human beings, so when we come play sports, people realize we are equal to them.”
Nonetheless, no spoken comments, messages, announcements or concerns regarding the Palestinian losses of life, the International Court of Justice decisions or the various tragedies unfolding in the conflict were made or broadcast. Nor of the unequal treatment, illegal seizures of land, international condemnation, famine, starvation, record numbers of orphans as a result of parents being killed, the illegal use of violence and force upon journalists, medical professionals, children and innocent bystanders. It was as if the Olympics could celebrate human success and that of the nations from which they came but not criticise the individuals, nations and personnel that were inflicting misery upon others and continued to cause misery and suffering.
Security Threat: Managing Relations
Managing relations between different delegations at the Olympic Games also presents significant security and diplomatic challenges. The presence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Jibril Rajoub, the President of Palestine's National Olympic Committee, added another layer of complexity to the event. The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict created potential security threats, especially given Rajoub's vocal opposition to Israeli athletes' participation in international competitions amid the Gaza conflict. Rajoub had previously called for a ban on Israel's athletes, and, openly stating to The Guardian newspaper that, he would avoid engaging with Yael Arad or other Israeli officials out of principle, should they encounter each other during the Olympics.
Rajoub assured that the Palestinian team had not received any specific instructions on how to behave if they competed against Israeli athletes, emphasizing that his organization would ensure adherence to the Olympic Charter. This situation mirrors the stance of Ukraine who have directed its athletes to keep their distance from Russian and Belarusian competitors who are competing as neutrals, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions.
The differing approaches to handling these sensitive interactions highlight the challenges the International Olympic Committee faces in navigating the intersection of sports and politics. The Games are meant to symbolize peace, unity, and friendly competition, yet they are often unavoidably entangled with the complex realities of international relations. The varying responses from different delegations underscore the ongoing struggle to maintain a neutral and unifying platform while addressing legitimate security and ethical concerns.
The presence of delegations from countries in conflict poses not only logistical and security challenges but also ethical questions about the role of sports in global diplomacy. The Games provide a unique opportunity for dialogue and understanding, but they also expose the persistent divisions and conflicts that characterize international politics. In this context, the IOC's role in managing these complexities is crucial, as they must navigate the fine line between promoting unity and acknowledging the realities of geopolitical tensions.
This is not true for all diplomatic relations. In a remarkable demonstration of the Olympic Movement's unity and the Olympic Spirit, athletes from North and South Korea made history by taking a selfie together after the medal ceremony of the mixed table tennis doubles. This moment came amid deteriorating relations between the two Koreas, following Seoul's announcement to suspend part of a joint military agreement in response to Pyongyang's satellite launch in November 2023. Despite the ongoing hostility in their diplomatic relations, this photo stands as a poignant reminder that sport can bridge divides and foster unity between conflicting nations in the context of sport.
Conclusion
This situation underscores the complex intersection of sports, politics, and ethics. The Olympics, ideally a symbol of unity and peace, often become a stage for broader international conflicts and disputes. The varied responses to different nations' involvement in wars or conflicts highlight the challenges of maintaining a consistent and fair approach to participation in global events like the Olympics.
As the Games progressed, they continued to reflect and, at times, amplify the complexities and contradictions of the global political landscape. The legal and security issues faced by Paris 2024 serve as a stark reminder that while the Olympics aim to transcend political boundaries, they are inevitably influenced by them. The diverse reactions to geopolitical events and security threats emphasize the need for an adaptable, fair, and ethically sound framework to manage participation and ensure safety in such international gatherings.
Ultimately, the Paris 2024 Olympics not only showcase athletic prowess but also mirror the ongoing struggles and dynamics of our world. They highlight the importance of addressing these challenges head-on, fostering dialogue, and promoting peace and understanding through sports.
III. The ‘Last Supper’: Mocking Christianity?
At the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony, a controversial segment has sparked debate over its depiction of Leonardo da Vinci's renowned Last Supper painting. In this tableau, a scantily clad man painted in blue emerged at the centre of a table, performing amidst a backdrop of dancing drag queens. This provocative reinterpretation has elicited criticism from those who view it as a mockery of the iconic artwork.
The French Bishops’ Conference, which represents France’s Catholic bishops, said in a statement that the scene was a “mockery and derision of Christianity”. The Catholic Church in France has expressed its disapproval of the ceremony for including “scenes of derision and mockery of Christianity”.
This sentiment was echoed by conservative and right-wing figures, including French MEP Marion Maréchal, who criticised the performance on X, tweeting : "To all the Christians of the world who are watching the #Paris2024 ceremony and felt insulted by this drag queen parody of the Last Supper, know that it is not France that is speaking but a left-wing minority ready for any provocation. #notinmyname.” Former U.S. President and current Presidential candidate Donald Trump also weighed in, denouncing the performance as a “disgrace” and a “terrible thing,” further amplifying the criticism surrounding the event.
The scene has ignited a debate about whether a similar portrayal of Islam or Judaism would have been permitted. Journalist Stephanie Takyi remarked “I don’t think they would have done that about Islam because they know that they would have gone to the streets and it would have been a wrap for the Olympics…They feel like for Christianity, because we’re quite subdued, let’s make a mockery of it.”
Following the eruption of widespread outrage and condemnation, the IOC apologised stating that “There was never an intention to show disrespect to any religious group”. Paris Olympics organisers have apologised after critics say ‘The Last Supper’ was mocked. However, the Opening Ceremony’s artistic director, Thomas Jolly, has insisted that the scene is not a reference at all to the Last Supper but rather a nod to a pagan celebration featuring Dionysus, the Greek god of fertility, wine and revelry.
Whatever the true reference to the scene, it became obvious that no athlete was permitted to speak about any political or religious matter or topic, but political and religious figures were openly stoking fires in relation to religion and particularly Christianity in relation to an artistic dance created by a French director.
Can an athlete truly be expected to excel in an event and carry the flag of their nation whilst their brothers and sisters in their homeland are dying through the use of bullets, bombs, starvation and disease? And how can you be expected to act as if you enjoy success but not highlight the suffering of innocent victims in your homeland?
IV. The River Siene: Environmental Law and Regulations
Rule 14, Article 15 of the Olympic states another important role of the IOC - the wish to stage sustainable Games has grown, and sustainability is now one of the core pillars of Olympic Agenda 2020.
Paris 2024 said its Games will be the “greenest in the event’s history”, with plans to limit emissions to around 1.75 million tonnes of CO2, half of the 3.5 million tonnes of CO2 London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020 emitted on average. Initiatives employed to achieve this included powering the Athlete’s Village with geothermal and solar energy, doubling the amount of plant-based food served at the event and 95% of the Games being hosted in existing buildings or temporary infrastructure. These efforts garnered significant attention in social media with athletes sleeping on mattresses made from recycled fishing nets and bed bases from reinforced cardboard.
The initiatives taken by Paris highlight the growing impact of societal shifts on major sporting events like the Olympics. Over the past ten years, environmental concerns have emerged as a prominent issue in public discourse, with more people becoming aware of and adopting positive attitudes toward ecological sustainability.
The River Siene
One of the most debated aspects of the Paris 2024 Games is the use of the River Seine for swimming competitions. The River Seine, a 777-kilometre-long river flowing through the heart of Paris, is traditionally known for its murky waters. Periodically, the sewage systems of Paris experience failures known as sanitary sewer overflows, often during periods of heavy rainfall. Under these conditions, untreated residential and industrial sewage is discharged into the Seine to prevent backflow.
In the Olympic spirit of the 2024 Games, French authorities sought to put Seine in the spotlight at the global event, which is as much an opportunity for theatrics and soft power as it is a platform for sporting talent. In 2018, the “Swimming Plan” was launched, a €1.4 billion clean-up programme designed to make the river safe for Olympic events.
Protests: In the Parisian Spirit
Leading up to the Games, the company responsible for Paris's water supply, along with other organizations, warned that the Seine still had unsafe pollution levels, igniting protests. Just days before the Olympic Ceremony, a group of citizens, in true Parisian fashion, threatened to "relieve themselves" in the Seine as a protest against the river's poor water quality. This movement gained traction online under the hashtag #JeChieDansLaSeine, ('I poop in the Seine').
France pumped a record sum of £1,180,000 to clean the river, despite its historical pollution.
While protests concerning the use of the River Seine have been vocal, they often overlook the broader benefits of making the city adaptable to the climate crisis and mitigating ocean pollution, which the river eventually feeds into. The history of the Seine mirrors the experiences of many urban rivers worldwide.
As nations industrialized and urban populations surged, these rivers became dumping grounds for both household and industrial waste, rendering them unsuitable for swimming and other recreational activities. By tackling pollution in the Seine, less waste and contaminants flow into the ocean, contributing to the global fight against marine pollution. Cleaner rivers mean fewer plastics and chemicals reaching the seas, thereby protecting marine life and ecosystems.
The cleanup efforts also lead to the revival of native species that may have been driven away by pollution, creating a more balanced and thriving ecosystem that supports a variety of aquatic life. Cleaner water sources contribute to overall public health and well-being by reducing harmful pollutants like E. coli and industrial waste, resulting in healthier aquatic ecosystems.
Despite the Men’s Triathlon being forcefully postponed due to water quality issues, the fish population has surged from just 2 species to over 30. Enhanced water clarity benefits both wildlife and human activities. Plans also call for several public swimming areas to be made available by 2025, ending a 102-year ban instituted in 1923 due to the polluted water.
Rule 2, Article 15 of the Olympic Charter states that an important role of the IOC is “to promote a positive legacy from the Olympic Games to the host cities and host countries.” As global efforts intensify to restore urban rivers for city residents, the cleanup of the Seine could offer inspiration to other cities aiming to revitalize their own waterways or it could serve as a cautionary tale about the challenges of restoring a river in the contemporary, warming world.
Duty of Care: The Health and Safety of Athletes
Despite the environmental benefits that cleaning the River Seine would bring, a significant point of concern remained the safety of the river for athletes. During the Games, the pollution levels in the river were closely scrutinized. Notably, during the mixed relay triathlon, the concentration of E. coli bacteria was measured at 418 colony-forming units (cfu) per 100 millilitres of water. This level was well within the safety standard for swimming events, which is set at 1000 E. coli/100ml, according to testing results published by Fluidion, a company that monitors pollution levels in the Seine. However, the comprehensive count of E. coli — a new metric that measures the actual number of bacteria in the water, whereas the other test only counts bundles of bacteria — was 1001 E. coli/100mL, just above the limit, resulting in "marginally acceptable water quality".
Despite these measures, the sanitary implications of a higher comprehensive count of E. coli—a hazardous bacterium that can lead to illnesses such as intestinal infections and conjunctivitis—became evident during the course of the Games. There have been growing reports of athletes falling ill after swimming in the Seine, with at least four athletes being reported sick. Portuguese athletes Vasco Vilaça and Melanie Santos developed gastrointestinal infections after swimming in the river on 5 August.
Beyond the health implications, this has prevented some athletes from competing in further events. The Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee stated on 4 August 2024 that triathlete Claire Michel was “unfortunately ill and must withdraw from the (mixed relay) competition.”
Despite the water quality being within the safety standards, these incidents highlight the challenges and risks associated with open water swimming in natural bodies of water, particularly in urban environments. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the duty of care host nations have towards the athletes, and protecting their health and safety takes priority over making the Olympics just a visual spectacle.
Conclusion
Regardless of whether Paris 2024 achieves its goal of being the most sustainable Olympic Games or faces accusations of greenwashing, it has undeniably set a new benchmark for future host nations. The escalating concern over climate change is too significant for leaders to ignore, and inaction will likely lead to increased protests and strikes. Paris 2024 is expected to inspire other host countries to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
However, the true effectiveness of these efforts will only become evident over time, as the world watches to see if the initiatives undertaken lead to lasting and meaningful change.
V. Commentating: Gender Equality and Sexism
Pursuant to Rule 8, Article 15 of the Olympic Charter, an important role of the IOC is “to encourage and support the promotion of women in sport at all levels and in all structures with a view to implementing the principle of equality of men and women.”
In many ways, the 2024 Games served as a powerful reminder of how far women's sports have come. It marked the first time in Olympic history that male and female athletes were represented equally. The Games also showcased evolving attitudes towards women's sporting equipment. The Great Britain women’s hockey team competed in shorts and skirts, a shift made possible by a campaign led by Tess Howard, a GB player. Howard's advocacy, supported by her university research, prompted England Hockey to change its rules in March 2023, followed by the International Hockey Federation in June 2023. This change has been celebrated as a milestone and has “shown how the team are true Gamechangers for the women’ sport”.
Additionally, the Games highlighted the increasing support for parent athletes. Rule 10, Article 15 of the Olympic Charter states that another role of the IOC is “to encourage and support measures relating to the medical care and health of athletes”. Nada Hafez, an Egyptian fencer, and Yaylagul Ramazanova, an Azerbaijan archer, both competed at the Games whilst pregnant, drawing attention to the newly introduced on-site nursery at the Olympic village. This initiative, introduced by the IOC and the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, ensures athletes can balance competition and spending quality time with their young children.
The progress in women’s support, advancements in sporting equipment, evolving societal attitudes towards female capabilities, and the growing recognition of female athletes during the Games are all significant milestones that deserve celebration and acknowledgment. However, these achievements were marred by the actions of sports commentator Bob Ballard.
On 27 July 2024, Bob Ballard, a veteran sports commentator known for his extensive career since the 1980s, made a disparaging remark during his coverage of the women's and men's 4 x 100-meter freestyle swimming events. Shortly after the Australian women’s team victory, Ballard commented, “Well the women are just finishing up. You know what women are like… hanging around, doing their makeup.” This sexist comment led Eurosport to remove him from the broadcast immediately. In their statement, Eurosport condemned the comment and announced, “During a segment of Eurosport’s coverage last night, commentator Bob Ballard made an inappropriate comment. To that end, he has been removed from our commentary roster with immediate effect.” Eurosport’s swift action is commendable for defending women’s achievements in sports and upholding Olympic values.
Ballard’s removal sparked a debate about whether his comment was a reflection of serious sexism or merely a thoughtless remark. This controversy underscores the ongoing discussions about the treatment of women in sports and the need for continued respect and vigilance in athletic commentary.
Article 1 of the United Nations (“UN”) Charter (1945) states, “To achieve international co-operation … in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.” The UN defines sexism as discrimination or prejudice based on a person's sex or gender. According to the UN, sexism involves a range of behaviours and attitudes that perpetuate inequality and reinforce harmful stereotypes about the roles and capabilities of individuals based on their sex or gender. This includes systemic barriers that limit opportunities and rights for individuals, particularly women and gender minorities.
In this context, Ballard’s comment was clearly sexist. His suggestion that women’s achievements are diminished by stereotypes about their behaviour reflects a prejudiced attitude rather than recognizing the genuine success of the Australian women’s team. The team’s Olympic gold medal was a symbol of excellence and dedication, and their moment of celebration was overshadowed by a remark that undermined their accomplishment.
Eurosport’s prompt removal of Ballard highlights the importance of maintaining respect and integrity in sports commentary. It serves as a reminder that while progress in gender equality is evident, ongoing vigilance and a commitment to challenging discriminatory attitudes are essential to ensure that all athletes, regardless of gender, receive the recognition and respect they deserve.VI. Conclusion
Planning and preparation for the Olympic Games involve an intricate array of measures, as highlighted in Part One of this article series. Building on this, the second part has delved into how security threats evolve as the Games progress, underscoring the necessity for a highly adaptable and vigilant security system. As geopolitical tensions and international dynamics shift, host nations must be acutely aware of and responsive to these developments to ensure the safety and success of the event.
The complexity of the geopolitical climate continues to pose challenges for the host nation. Throughout the Games, it is crucial for host countries to remain informed about international affairs and potential conflicts, which can impact both security and public perception. The fragility of global relations was starkly illustrated during the Olympic Ceremony, where the perceived depiction of Christianity through the ‘Last Supper’ sparked controversy. This incident highlighted the influence of broader societal phenomena such as cancel culture and demonstrated how political figures, like Donald Trump during the US election campaign, can exploit such controversies for attention. It serves as a potent reminder of the sensitivity required when planning high-profile events, particularly the Opening Ceremony, to avoid unintended offenses and political exploitation.
The 2024 Games were notable for several groundbreaking achievements, including the historic inclusion of swimming events in the River Seine and a significant increase in female participation. However, the decision to host swimming in the river has led to reputational concerns for France, revealing that efforts to make a bold statement can sometimes result in unforeseen complications. This serves as a reminder that while seeking to make a memorable impact, host nations must carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits of their decisions.
Despite the Games' celebration of the Olympic spirit and the promotion of equality, they also revealed the limitations of the IOC's influence over individual behaviours and attitudes. The Games, while embodying ideals of unity and respect, cannot fully eradicate instances of sexism or other discriminatory behaviours. This underscores the ongoing challenge of reconciling the ideals of the Olympic Movement with the realities of individual attitudes and societal issues.
While the 2024 Games exemplified progress and innovation in many areas, they also highlighted the complexities and challenges inherent in hosting a global event of such magnitude. Host nations must navigate a delicate balance between making bold statements and managing potential risks, all while upholding the core values of the Olympic Movement. The Games serve as both a celebration of human achievement and a reminder of the ongoing work required to address and overcome the societal and geopolitical challenges that accompany such a high-profile event.