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In the past, certain countries and the IOC have brought politics to
the Olympic Games but it is believed that this action should be minimized.
Some advocated that the IOC should have taken more direct action
in the matter, while others felt it should have remained solely as an
issue for the host country. It was felt that such political actions or
statements could threaten the ideals of the Olympic Movement in the years
ahead.
Some felt that the gesture was generally acceptable and positive being
in line with the Olympic values of unity and friendship. However, it was equally
felt that the occasion was not necessarily the right one. Parallels were drawn
between the similar incident of John Carlos & Tommy Smith display of Black
Power in 1968 at the Mexico City Games but differed in the manner it was dealt
with by the NOC.
Question 8: Do you think nationalism in the Olympic Games is "over
the top and not at all appropriate" given the rhetoric of de Coubertin and
the Olympic Movement ("the important thing is not the winning but the
taking part...").
It is important to remember that the philosophy of de Coubertin is coherent
with his time. Some felt that nowadays this thinking is unrealistic - a utopia,
however, it must be interpreted for our times. The media, economic and
governmental pressures placed on the athletes, encourages them to win at all
costs.
It was felt by some that nationalism is a positive, motivating force
for competing athletes and countries. Winning at the Olympic Games improves
the image and self-esteem of nations. This is especially important for small
and developing countries. This fact is not always acknowledged by the media,
who primarily focus on the successes of famous athletes from developed
countries. Nationalism in the Olympic Games is promoted through the
Opening and Closing Ceremonies and the use of national anthems at medal
ceremonies, etc.
Other groups felt that internationalism should be placed ahead of nationalism.
Nationalism undermines Coubertin' s philosophy that placed more emphasis
on participation instead of winning. The IOC, NOCs and the media contribute
to the creation of an atmosphere that rewards only victory and ignores a
fundamental principle of Olympism, universality. Such attitudes should be
condemned.
All groups expressed concerns regarding some extreme expressions
of nationalism in the Olympic Games. It was agreed that the ideals of winning
and participating can coexist. Furthermore, an individual's national pride
should not discourage respect for other cultures or opinions. Olympism can
and must promote solidarity and understanding among all nations in the
world.
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