SHIELD ATHLETES WHO SPEAK OUT

UN human rights chief says there must be protection for them with no fear of reprisals

GENEVA Athletes must be able to speak out on rights abuses such as racism and discrimination without fear of reprisals, the United Nations human rights chief insisted on July 1, ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Volker Turk said the Games, which begin on July 26, would be taking place against a backdrop of wars, and praised the courage of athletes who highlight rights violations.

He was speaking at the UN Human Rights Council alongside International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach.

But during the subsequent debate, Russia lashed out at its exclusion from Paris 2024 over its war in Ukraine, accusing the IOC of "sordid tactics" and "collective punishment" of its athletes.

Sports, like human rights, promote fairness, respect and equal opportunities, Turk told the rights council in Geneva.

However, sports were not immune from human rights challenges, including during landmark events like the Olympics, he noted.

"Some worrying issues are more visible than others: racist or sexist incidents, abuse, violence against women, corruption, discrimination on the basis of religion or religious attire, disability, nationality or sexual orientation and gender identity," he said.