How is the autonomy of sport guaranteed within the Olympic Movement?
The Olympic Charter stipulates that :
- (Chapter 1, Rules 2, Paragraph 5) The IOC’s role is to take action to strengthen the unity of the Olympic Movement, to protect its independence, to maintain and promote its political neutrality and to reserve the autonomy of sport.
- (Chapter 4, Rules 27) NOCs may cooperate with governmental bodies however they shall not associate themselves with any activity which would be in contradiction with the Olympic Charter. The NOCs must preserve their autonomy and resist all pressures of any kind, including but not limited to political, legal, religious or economic pressures. The IOC Executive Board may take any appropriate decisions for the protection of the Olympic Movement’s neutrality.
- (Chapter 3, Rules 25) Each IF maintains its independence and autonomy in the governance of its sport.