The Fundamental Principles ofOlympism

- 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. Everyindividual 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

Ho w 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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