Olympic Games Rio 2016 - Social Legacy

The Olympic Games Rio 2016 have the power to leave an important social legacy not just for the people of Rio de Janeiro, but further afield in Brazil, South America and internationally.

Olympic Games Rio 2016 - Social Legacy
© 2016 IOC / Nelson CHAVEZ

A new Volunteerism

Volunteers are a major contributing factor to the success of any Olympic Games. The enthusiasm that the Brazilians showed for volunteering was very positive and has helped to create a culture of volunteerism in the country.

  • Rio 2016 was able to count on the services of some 50,000 volunteers.

  • Over 240,000 people applied to become volunteers for the Olympic Games.

  • Applications were received from 192 different countries, with 60% coming from Brazil.

  • Applicants were aged from 16 to 80 years of age, with 50% of Brazilian applicants being 25 or younger.

  • 50% of applicants were women.

  • Applicants who were selected were offered a one-year online English course, as well as specific training for their roles.

A grassroots project

Local communities were involved in Games preparation and received training and skills that they will be able to use in their daily lives after the Games.

  • New equipment was installed in community centres in Rio. Members of nine underprivileged communities were given free training by domestic partner Cisco enabling them to work as technology network professionals.

  • At-risk women in poor communities in Rio were trained in design, quality control and basic managerial skills. They were hired to make the 22,000 cushions that decorated the athlete’s apartments.

  • The IOC worked directly on projects intended to create a sustainable future for young people including Fight For Peace and UN Women’s “One Win Leads to Another”. The IOC continues to support their work with the young in Rio and Brazil.

Employment & training

  • Young apprentices received training in sports and event management, and were given first job opportunities at the Games.

  • Some 1,450 young professionals were offered training and skills in technology and subsequently jobs with Olympic Broadcasting services (OBS).