To what extent can the IOC ensure that the OCOGs comply with human rights requirements?
Respect for the Olympic Charter is part of the Olympic Host Contract, and by signing the Olympic Host Contract, hosts are committing to respect the Olympic Charter in the context of the Games.
Important provisions related to respect for human rights in the conduct of Games-related activities are also included in the Host Contract (e.g. labour conditions and procurement, diversity and inclusion, health and environment, media coverage of the Games, peaceful assembly and protest, relocation of populations displaced by Olympic constructions, privacy and use of personal data).
The IOC monitors regularly and holds discussion with the OCOGs to make sure they meet their contractual requirements. In addition, the IOC has established an escalation mechanism with all Organising Committees through the Coordination Commission. All complaints can be brought to the immediate attention of the Organising Committee through this process. Other stakeholders can raise their topics with the IOC, which will then take them up with the Organising Committee too.
However, it is important to note that the IOC has neither the mandate nor the capability to change the laws or the political system of a sovereign country. This must rightfully remain the legitimate role of governments and respective intergovernmental organisations. The situation of human rights outside the Olympic Games’ activities is beyond the IOC’s remit.