Bluey 006
Member
There has always been an inherent connection between sports and politics. Sports (athletes, teams, events) are often used for political purposes: to further an ideology, to represent a political position, to convey displeasure or support, to damage or enhance a host nation's prestige, image-building, building a platform for dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation, integration, and anti-racism. They can even aid in nation-building by rousing patriotism and pride. Sports are undoubtedly an instrument of soft power.
As an example, consider, North and South Korea recently marching under one flag at Winter Olympics and how, if at all, this has contributed to future dialogue between the North Korean regime and the West (something that a few months ago, seemed impossible)
How much impact does a disgraced athlete or sports team have on a nation's international prestige?
As an example, consider, North and South Korea recently marching under one flag at Winter Olympics and how, if at all, this has contributed to future dialogue between the North Korean regime and the West (something that a few months ago, seemed impossible)
How much impact does a disgraced athlete or sports team have on a nation's international prestige?
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