The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has unveiled a 36-athlete refugee team for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, marking a significant milestone in the history of global sports and refugee representation.
Third Appearance of the Refugee Team
This will be the third time a refugee team competes at the Olympic Games since their debut in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. The team made its second appearance in Tokyo in 2021. The number of athletes has grown from 10 in 2016 to 29 in 2021, and now to 36 in 2024. These athletes come from 11 countries and regions and will compete across 12 sports.
A Message of Hope and Resilience
\”You are an enrichment to our Olympic Community and to our societies,\” IOC President Thomas Bach told the athletes. \”With your participation in the Olympic Games, you will demonstrate the human potential of resilience and excellence.\”
Bach added, \”This will send a message of hope to the more than 100 million displaced people around the world. At the same time, you will make billions of people around the world aware of the magnitude of the refugee crisis.\”
Global Significance
The inclusion of the refugee team in the Olympics serves as a powerful symbol of unity and perseverance. It highlights the plight of refugees worldwide while celebrating their talents and contributions to sports and society.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
