Markku Rantahalvari: Boycott sporting events the right way!

When sporting events are hosted by countries that are notorious for grave violations of human rights and other unethical behaviour, many people doubt whether it’s right even to watch from the comfort of their own home.

Which matters more: following sport or taking a stand against shady political regimes? Check out our tips below to help make your mind up.

Athletes

a) You decide to stay at home.
Very good! You have sound principles.

b) You go to the event.
Very good! You’ve worked hard to earn your place.

c) You plan to protest at the event.
Very good! You could draw a lot of attention to the cause this way. PS In the case of team sports, discuss this with the rest of your team first – you could protest together for even greater impact.

The people behind the team

a) You decide to stay at home.
Very good! You have sound principles.

b) You go to the event.
Very good! Your work is important, as it allows athletes to focus on their performance.

c) You plan to protest at the event.
Very good! However, you should check with the whole team in advance that this is okay and will not affect their performance.

Sport federation leaders and politicians

a) You decide to stay at home.
Very good! You have sound principles.

b) You go to the event.
Very good! As long as there are formal or informal meetings at the event where you can have your say about future events.

c) You are going to the event at the invitation of a dictatorship to enjoy the sport and the atmosphere.
Cancel your plane tickets.

TV viewers

a) You don’t watch a second of the event.
Very good! Audience numbers matter to sponsors, and hurting profits is often the quickest way to bring about change.

b) You watch the event.
Very good! Athletes appreciate all the support they get.

c) You’re going to the event.
You should think again. But if you’ve decided you’re not going to lose any sleep over attending an event that’s well known to involve serious ethical problems, go and have yourself a ball.

Media

a) You attend the event.
Very good – but you won’t be afraid to ask tough questions and speak the inconvenient truth there, will you?