The decision to award Beijing the 2008 Summer Olympics opened yet another controversial chapter in the history of the modern Olympic Games. Critics of China’s human rights record felt awarding the Games to Beijing would send the wrong message to a government with a long legacy of repression. Concern was also voiced for the effect of Beijing’s selection on the reputation of the Olympic Movement itself, a reputation founded on universal respect for human dignity.
Despite the outcry, little has been written about the actual connection between the Olympics and human rights and why Beijing’s selection might be considered averse to the ideals of Olympism. The purpose of this blog is to do just that – to take a critical look at the Olympic Movement’s relationship with human rights and highlight some of the major human rights challenges facing China today.
Ultimately, this blog is not just about our point of view on these matters – Rights & Democracy wants your points of view, too. On top of the usual comments, criticism, photos, etc… that we hope you’ll contribute, we hope you’ll also feel compelled to enter our essay contest on the connection between the Olympics and human rights. The winning author, who must be between the ages of 18-30, will receive a $500 scholarship grant if he/she is a qualified student or $300 in cash if he/she is not.
