The Olympics and their impact beyond sports
By Emiliano Rodriguez Nuesch and María Morena Vicente
Events like the Olympics offer a global stage to highlight critical social, political, and environmental issues. While sports take center stage, this high-profile ceremony also brings attention to important societal problems that might otherwise be overlooked.
Let's take a look at a few examples.
The refugees team
The IOC Refugee Olympic Team was created in response to the global refugee crisis, debuting at the Rio 2016 Olympics to send a message of hope and inclusion. Supported by the IOC’s Olympic Solidarity program, the initiative helps refugee athletes train and compete at elite levels, while also providing opportunities for displaced youth to engage in sports year-round.
The growing number of athletes on the Refugee Olympic Team raises an important question: Is it a sign of greater recognition and opportunities for these athletes, or does it reflect the worsening refugee crisis worldwide?
Kelly Clements, Deputy High Commissioner in the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), addressed this important question in an interview with Forbes.
Mental health
Simone Biles became a mental health advocate during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after withdrawing from the team competition due to “the twisties,” a severe mental block affecting her gymnastics performance.
Despite previously discussing her anxiety, Biles faced intense criticism and used her platform to highlight the importance of mental well-being.
This is Simone talking about her experience with mental health struggles, inspiring others to speak up and seek professional help when necessary.
Biles also uses her social media to speak up about race inequality. She subtly responded to former President Donald Trump’s controversial comments about "Black jobs" with a post on X.
After winning her ninth gold medal at the Paris Olympics, Simone Biles posted, "I love my black job," in response to a tweet praising her success. This was seen as a subtle clap back at former President Donald Trump's controversial claim that migrants were taking "Black jobs," a remark that has been widely criticized as racist and divisive.
Global warming and rising heat
The Paris Olympics 100 years ago were a much smaller spectacle than today's. Another big difference is spotted: climate has changed dramatically since Paris last hosted the Olympics. Average temperatures in the city are significantly higher today than in 1924. Air pollution, on the other hand, has fallen as the city has moved away from fossil fuels, especially coal, and clamped down on car use.
The Paris 2024 Olympics are set to be the greenest Games yet. But will initiatives such as recycled plastic stadium seats and accommodation 'sans aircon' be enough to hit the organizers’ climate goals?
From now on, athletes have a ruthless new opponent.
Discrimination and gender inequality
Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, and Lin Yu-Ting from Taiwan faced controversy over gender eligibility for Paris 2024. Both athletes faced scrutiny despite competing without issues at Tokyo 2020.
This is Khelif’s message.
The IOC has clarified that these accusations are unfounded. Both Khelif and Yu-Ting have competed as women in international boxing for years. Claims about high testosterone levels and gender identity are not supported by scientific evidence and are used to perpetuate false narratives.
Ukraine as a symbol of resilience
Ukrainian athletes have shone at the Paris Olympics, winning golds in track, boxing, and fencing, alongside silvers in gymnastics and shooting, and three bronzes.
Despite the turmoil of Russia’s invasion since February 2022, which has claimed around 500 lives and damaged over 500 sports facilities, Ukrainian competitors have shown extraordinary resilience.
After the Games, officials will face the challenge of rebuilding the country’s sports infrastructure to prepare for future Olympics and international events.
With their practices interrupted by war, two athletes from Ukraine, one a judo champion, the other the world's No. 1 high jumper, took different roads to the Paris Olympics. These are their stories.
As a global platform to celebrate athletic excellence, the Olympics also shed light on pressing social, political, and environmental issues, reaching a diverse and widespread audience.
Through the power of sport, the Games can amplify underrepresented voices and catalyze meaningful conversations and actions, encouraging societal change and greater understanding.