Reviving the Flame

As well, an immediate, clear and open communication must focus on raising people’s enthusiasm to
become the host community of renewed Games. Hence, people must understand what the Agenda 20 20
is, and its importance. Just like Mr. Crettenand (2017) says, people sometimes do not understand the real
meaning of “sustainable development”. It is thus necessary to focus on relaying the right message: what
are the key aspects of the Agenda 20 20, how Sion 2026 is based on this strategy, and what opportunities
does it bring to the host city and community apart from the OG. The public needs to understand that, since
no proof can be given on the success of the agenda and the Games are now in a transition phase.
Some of the interviewee highlighted the importance to have a good leadership and great representative
that can motivate the public, the youth and the elder, and raise enthusiasm for the Winter Games. Sportswomen
and men are certainly the best ambassador for this SME since they can inspire people and be seen
as mentors to the younger generations.
Figure 11 Athletes supporting Sion 2026, left to right: William Besse, Céline Von Till, Didier Défago,
Charlotte Chable, Roland Collombin & Virginie Faivre. Source: Swissinfo.ch
Understanding is thus one of the key aspect to focus on at the moment. If the committee manages to
convince the public and a majority of political parties, the vote planned in June 2018 in the canton of Valais
will have more chance of a positive outcome. Furthermore, the risk of a national referendum will be
diminished, as long as the committee and the Valais emphasize a Swiss candidacy and not a cantonal one.
Lastly, the committee does not propose any ex ante analysis. Such study could be useful particularly for
the environment, and become a key argument to convince stakeholders. As an example, the author advises
to study the possibility to frame Sion 2026’ goals on recognised schemes such as the “Science Based
Targets” (SBTs). This initiative is recognised by both the WWF and the WRI (World Resources Institute). The
SBTs provide companies with “clearly defined pathway to future-proof growth by specifying how much and
how quickly they need to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions” (Science Based Targets, 2017). The OWG
being a one-time event in Switzerland, the IOC should be the prime company to take part to the SBT. Such
commitment would certainly improve their image, and conform to their Agenda 20 20. Nonetheless, since
Sion 2026 may be the first city to host OWG based on the Agenda 20 20, the COGO should clearly engage
with the SBT initiative to lead the way toward sustainability for future Winter Games.
Recommendation 38