It has been more than a decade since the Cold War is over. Being used to the surprises of history, we need to recall some of the facts of the past in order to trace the political movements of that time and their ways to get public attention. International sporting events is a great way to attract attention to a certain issue. When the Cold War reached its peak of development, the delegation from Soviet Union boycotted the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 1984. It was something that might happen and a direct proof was received by officials two-three weeks before the official opening. The bad news was that some other countries from the East of Europe joined the boycott. Romania was the only country to participate in the Olympic Games representing the East of Europe. Actions of Cuba that also joined the boycott were surprising and even shocking.
Official delegation
from the Soviet Union accused the US of commercialization and poor security
precautions that may put athletes in danger. After careful analyses of the
situation the analysts came to the conclusion that these actions are a fair
response to the boycott of the Olympic Games of 1980 by American athletes. This
was a protest against the invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 by Russian troops.
There were only a few officials that believed in the stated reason. The others didn’t believe in USSR’s
explanations and supported the White House who considered all this to be
another political act. The officials stated that the security level is high
enough for athletes to feel comfortable. Nearly 140 athletes took part in the
competition. But the overall view of the competition highlights the average
level of quality of the Games. Most of
the athletes that boycotted the event were the medal holders of the previous
games in 1980. Therefore, every Olympic Champion of 1984 feels that his title
could have been taken by the other athlete if there was a chance to reduce the
conflict.
The Games were
quite successful, but the essence of politics being involved in every sporting
event still exists, though now The Olympic Games are quite profitable and don’t
have to rely on the financial aid of the government. Nowadays, same as a decade
ago, countries fight over a right to hold Olympic Games. Sometimes these events
are used for political gains and features. We remember the games held in Nazi
Germany that were dangerously politicized and is remembered not only for
outstanding results, but also for shocking accidents that even took people’s
lives. Nowadays there are no major conflicts but politics and sports will be
inseparable in the future. One of the main aim of such events is to gain
International friendships.
Comments