Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001810/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)
The Olympic Games are a timeless symbol of peace and international concord, promoting respect, cooperation and solidarity between nations across the world. The Olympic Truce, which has its roots in ancient Greece, recalls the power of sport in bridging differences or at least in providing an arena of coexistence, even in times of war. The Games provide a framework for accord and the hope of a more peaceful world. As Greeks, we know that the periodically expressed European positions on excluding Russian and Belarusian athletes go against the Olympic spirit.
On 14 June 2024, the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy issued a statement on the alignment of certain countries on restrictive measures against Russia. The statement was part of the restrictive measures imposed by the EU on Russia.
In October 2024, the relevant Vice-President of the European Commission stated that athletes from Russia and Belarus who have supported or participated in the aggression against Ukraine should not participate in international sporting events. At the same time, there is an exclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes from most European events.
Does the Commission consider that participation in the Olympic Games and all major sporting events contributes to peace and understanding between nations or not?
Submitted: 6.5.2025