Expressing the need to take decisive steps to limit the soft power of Russia and Belarus in Latvian and international sports, the LOK urges Latvian sports organizations, athletes and sports staff to ensure full compliance of their sports organizations with the provisions of the Sports Law and other regulations for participation in sports.
“We have adopted a common and nationally united position, which clearly and unambiguously defines the common attitude towards events and anticipates the consequences if this position is not followed,” said George Tikmer, President of the LOK. “The guidelines to be developed are a precautionary measure for decision-making by the sports federation and for expressing a clear position, both locally and internationally, in the context of sporting events and also in the information space.”
In addition to the restrictions specified in the Sports Law, the LOK calls for the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes and employees in sports competitions or any other sports-related events in Latvia or in events organized by Latvian sports organizations abroad. It is also recommended to encourage and support the suspension or termination of the participation of Russian and Belarusian organizations in international sports organizations, as well as the suspension or termination of the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes and sports staff in competitions or any other sporting event.
The IOC also urges and encourages the suspension or removal of Russian and Belarusian sports staff from any duties in international sports organizations. In addition, to assess on a case-by-case basis the usefulness of the organisation’s participation in the work of sports bodies, as well as in competitions included in their calendars or any other sport-related events, which have not excluded, suspended or revoked Russian and Belarusian national sports organizations .
The LOK calls on the sports federations to address the athletes and employees of their sport who are both Latvian and Russian or Belarusian, and to make a clear choice as to which of these countries they wish to maintain their commitment to. In each case, in accordance with laws and regulations, evaluate the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in Latvian sports clubs, as well as provide all possible support to Ukrainian sports organizations, athletes and sports workers to partially prevent the terrible consequences of war and negative opportunities to participate in sports.
As far as possible, the IOC urges support for Russian and Belarusian athletes and workers who clearly and unequivocally condemn the aggressive hostilities in Ukraine and are active in restoring peace. At the same time, to apply the policy of “zero tolerance” to those representatives of the Latvian sports society whose activities and opinions are in conflict with the interests of the Latvian state.
In case of doubt, the LOK invites to consult with the Sports Department of the Ministry of Education and Science, and in case of sports or ethical issues – with the LOK Ethics Commission.
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