Since July 19, the Olympic Truce is supposed to be respected throughout the duration of the Games. However, it is obvious that on the ground, this truce is not always respected. The opening ceremony of the Games marked the beginning of this period of peace, but conflicts and tensions persist despite calls for the cessation of hostilities. It is important to emphasize that the Olympic Truce does not necessarily guarantee the end of conflicts and that additional efforts must be made to ensure security and peace during this international sporting event.
The Olympic Games, a major diplomatic event
The Olympic Games are often the stage for major diplomatic encounters. On Friday, July 26, Paris will host more than 80 heads of state and government to kick off the festivities. Emmanuel Macron will receive them at the Élysée before attending the opening ceremony. These Games are supposed to represent a moment of peace and brotherhood in a tense world. However, the “Olympic Truce” desired by President Macron seems to be an ideal that is difficult to achieve.
An ancient tradition revived
In ancient Greece, the Olympic Truce aimed to ensure the safety of participants and spectators. This tradition was reintroduced about 30 years ago. Since 1993, it has been adopted one year before each edition of the Games, whether summer or winter, by the UN General Assembly. Last year, Russia and Syria abstained from voting on the resolution for the Olympic Truce, requested by Russia.
Disagreements between Russia and Ukraine
Emmanuel Macron has regularly advocated for the Olympic Truce, even in the French political context. He has received support from important leaders, such as Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, some leaders, like Volodymyr Zelensky in Ukraine, fear that this truce may favor the “enemy”. Indeed, history has shown that Russia has violated the Olympic Truce several times, notably during conflicts in Georgia, Crimea, and Ukraine.
In reality, the Olympic Games have never succeeded in establishing peace in the world, especially in regions plagued by conflicts such as the Middle East, Sudan, Ukraine, or Myanmar. The Paris Games unfortunately do not seem to be able to change this reality.
Article Source: Francetvinfo
Pascal Petibon, born in 1980 in Lyon, is a renowned journalist and author, passionate about information and communication. After earning a degree in journalism from the University of Paris, he quickly joined various editorial teams, where he became known for his sharp analysis and clear writing style.
