The Fundamental Principles of Olympism

- a mechanism for human rights promotion -

Ana ADI

Les Jeux Olympiques se celebrent tous les quatre ans. Ils reunissent les amateurs

de toutes les nations, sur un pied d’egalite aussi parfait que possible.

(Olympic Charter, 1923)

1. The Olympic Games are held every four years and assemble amateurs of all nations in fair and equal competition under conditions which are to be as

perfect as possible. No discrimination is allowed against any country or

person on grounds of colour, religion or politics.

(Olympic Charter, 1949)

4. The aims of the Olympic Movement are to promote the development of

those fine physical and moral qualities that come from contests on the friendly

fields of amateur sport and to bring together the youth of the world in a

great quadrennial sport festival, thereby creating international respect and goodwill, and helping to construct

a better and more peaceful world. (Olympic Charter, 1958:9)

What is Fair Play if it is not dignity and self-respect? Human dignity as it is defined in the Charter of Human Rights. Each one of us, every person on this Earth, possesses this dignity, not acquired at the price of

some achievement, butnaturally inherent to mankind. It exists independently of social rank, position or

wealth. It cannot cease to exist, but must constantly re-assert itself .

(Juan Antonio Samaranch in IOC 88th Session, 1984:40)

8 - The practice of sport is a human right. Every

individual must have the possibility of practising

sport in accordance with his or her needs.

(Olympic Charter, 1996:9)

Does the philosophy of Olympism extend to the

project of human rights promotion?

YES

How should this human rights and humanitarian philosophy of Olympism translate into practice?

• Information exchange • University Relations

(formal/informal)• Research • Transparency • Dialogue• Communication

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