Denmark’s Culture Minister criticizes participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes at Olympics in Paris
As the Olympics officially kick off today in Paris, Denmark’s Culture Minister, Jakob Engel-Schmidt, will be present to support Danish athletes. Despite his presence, he has expressed criticism regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes competing under a neutral flag due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. “As Denmark’s Minister of Sports and Culture, I will be in Paris to support our athletes,” Engel-Schmidt confirmed.
He highlighted that Denmark, alongside over 30 other countries, signed a declaration last year urging the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to bar Russian and Belarusian athletes from this year’s games because of the conflict in Ukraine. “I believe they should not be allowed to compete; those waging war against a peaceful country have no place in an international sports event,” he stated.
Even with rising criticism, 15 Russian and 17 Belarusian athletes are set to participate in the Olympics. These athletes will compete as neutral participants and will not be recognized as representatives of their respective countries. Consequently, they will also miss the official opening ceremony.
Last week, human rights organization Global Rights Compliance accused ten Russian and seven Belarusian athletes of supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. According to IOC guidelines, participation is prohibited for those actively endorsing the war.
The Danish Athletics Committee, affiliated with the Danish Sports Federation, preferred a scenario without Russian or Belarusian athletes but appreciates the Culture Minister’s support for Danish competitors. “It’s important for the athletes to know that all of Denmark stands behind them,” said Asger Mølgaard, chairman of the committee. He emphasized that athletes should focus on their sport and enjoy their Olympic experience in Paris.