The Latvian Olympic Committee (LOC) does not support and expresses disappointment with today's decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which lifts restrictions for Belarus and Belarusian athletes to participate in international competitions using national symbols.
According to the LOK, they consider this an unacceptable departure from the fundamental principles of the Olympic Charter at a time when the war against Ukraine continues.
"Latvia's position on this issue remains unchanged, as the reality of war has not changed. Therefore, the return of the symbols of aggressor states to stadiums is unacceptable while active hostilities continue and Ukraine's territorial integrity is violated. The use of national symbols at international venues is a direct tool of 'soft power' for aggressor states, aimed at normalizing illegal actions and dividing the unified position of the international community," the LOK stated.
Until now, and especially now, the LOK coordinates its decisions and actions with international partners — the Baltic countries, Ukraine, and the Nordic countries, and maintains a close dialogue with the government. Currently, refined recommendations for Latvian athletes and federations regarding participation in international competitions are being developed to adhere to ethical principles and values.
The LOK recognizes that such decisions evoke strong emotions in society and the sports community, and calls for calm, respect, and mutual understanding.
What the IOC decided
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommended the return of Belarusian athletes and teams to international tournaments, as reported on the organization's website. Thus, the recommendations from February 28, 2022, and March 28, 2023, are canceled.
"The IOC reiterates that the participation of athletes in international competitions should not be limited by the actions of their governments, including participation in war or conflict," the statement said.
The committee notes that Belarusians have competed in recent tournaments as individual neutral athletes "without any incidents on or off the sports arena," and the NOC of Belarus "is in good standing and adheres to the Olympic Charter."
Restrictions and sanctions against the Russian Federation remain in force.
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