The International Olympic Committee said in a statement addressed to its members that it has been assured by Russian government that a recent law against gay rights activism will not affect those associated with or attending the Sochi Olympics in February.
“The International Olympic Committee is clear that sport is a human right and should be available to all regardless of race, sex or sexual orientation as stated in the Olympic Charter,” the statement read. “The Games themselves should be open to all, free of discrimination, and that applies to spectators, officials, media and, of course, athletes. We would oppose in the strongest terms any move that would jeopardise this principle.
“As you know, this legislation has just been passed into law and it remains to be seen whether and how it will be implemented, particularly as regards the Games in Sochi. As a sports organisation, what we can do is to continue to work to ensure that the Games can take place without discrimination against athletes, officials, spectators and the media. To that end, the IOC has received a number of assurances from the highest level of government in Russia that the legislation will not affect those attending or taking part in the Games.”
President Barack Obama has voiced disagreement with the Russian law enacted in June that bans “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations” to minors. He also does not believe in a boycott.
“I do not think it’s appropriate to boycott the Olympics,” Obama told reporters Friday. “We’ve got a bunch of Americans out there who are training hard, who are doing everything they can to succeed.”
Video: Obama: No tolerance for Russia treating gays, lesbians differently
