July 20, 2024
Olympics 2024: France Takes the Gold in Islamophobia
As the curtains fall on the 2024 Paris Olympics, what should have been a celebration of global athleticism and unity is overshadowed by troubling undercurrents of Islamophobia and racism – major social determinants of health globally. France, the host nation, stands accused of perpetuating Islamophobia in ways that challenge the very spirit of the Games.
One of the most poignant examples of this was the experience of Iman Khelif, an Algerian boxer whose Olympic journey was marred by discriminatory practices. Khelif, who was subjected to extensive hormone tests, faced scrutiny that many believe was motivated by her background rather than any genuine sporting concern. Such tests, while intended to ensure fairness, have historically been disproportionately applied to athletes from minority backgrounds, raising concerns about systemic bias in international sports.
France’s treatment of Muslim athletes is further exemplified by its controversial decision to ban hijabs for athletes representing Team France. This policy, rooted in the country’s strict secularism laws, effectively prohibits Muslim women from expressing their faith through their attire while competing for the national team. The double standard becomes even more glaring when considering the inclusion of Dutch volleyball player Steven van de Velde, who was convicted of raping a child yet was not barred from competing in the Olympics. The contrast between banning hijab-wearing athletes from Team France and allowing a convicted criminal to compete underlines a troubling inconsistency in how rules are applied and who is deemed acceptable to represent their country on the global stage.
The broader geopolitical context of the 2024 Olympics further complicates France’s stance. The participation of countries like China, which faces widespread criticism for its treatment of Uighur Muslims, and Israel, amid ongoing genocide in Gaza, highlights a troubling double standard. While the International Olympic Committee typically does not exclude nations based on their internal policies, the juxtaposition of these countries’ participation with France’s domestic policies towards Muslim populations raises ethical questions.
In a powerful act of resistance during the closing ceremony, Sifan Hassan, a Muslim athlete, made headlines by wearing a hijab while accepting her medal. Despite France’s oppressive stance on religious symbols, Hassan’s courageous gesture served as a symbolic stand against the systemic exclusion faced by Muslim athletes throughout the Games. Her defiance resonated far beyond the Olympic stage, reminding the world that the fight for religious freedom and equality in sports is far from over.
The impact of such discriminatory practices extends beyond the Games. Research has shown that Islamophobia can have severe mental health consequences, including increased stress and anxiety. For athletes who have trained their entire lives for the Olympics, facing such hostility can take a significant toll on both their performance and well-being.
As the Paris Olympics draw to a close, the legacy of these Games will be remembered not only for the athletic achievements but also for the broader social issues they brought to light. Iman Khelif’s experience, coupled with the bold act of Sifan Hassan at the closing ceremony, serves as a stark reminder that the fight for equality and respect in sports is ongoing. The Olympic spirit, which aspires to unite people across differences, must also rise to the challenge of confronting prejudice and ensuring that all athletes can compete on an equal footing.
The world now looks ahead to future Games, hoping they will better embody the inclusivity and respect that the Olympics promise but have yet to fully deliver.
Image Credit: James Diamond
