Opening:

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed judges, and respected fellow debaters, I stand before you today
with a firm stance against the notion that international sporting events should remain devoid of
political engagement. It is imperative to recognize that these events transcend mere competitions;
they serve as dynamic platforms where social and political narratives intertwine, igniting
movements for change and nurturing bonds of cooperation that stretch across borders. To
advocate for the depoliticization of such events is to willfully disregard their inherent capacity to
confront pressing societal issues and galvanize collective action on a global scale.
Sporting events, throughout history, have evolved into arenas where athletes and spectators alike
become not just participants, but also agents of social and political discourse. They offer a stage
upon which individuals from diverse backgrounds and nations can amplify their voices, bringing
attention to injustices and advocating for meaningful reform. Indeed, to strip these events of their
political dimension is to deny their potential as catalysts for progress and transformation in our
interconnected world.
In today's interconnected world, where the lines between sports and politics often blur, it is
crucial to embrace the intrinsic political nature of international sporting events. Far from being
mere displays of athletic prowess, these events serve as powerful catalysts for social change and
international cooperation. It is time we recognize and harness the full potential of these platforms
to address pressing global challenges and inspire positive action.

Argument 1 (first)
Sporting events, such as the Olympics and the World Cup, attract a vast audience from around
the world, making them powerful tools for raising awareness and advocating for social causes.
History is replete with examples of athletes using their platform to draw attention to important
issues. One iconic moment (that also mentioned by our Deputy Leader-Hector earlier) is the
1968 Olympics in Mexico City, where American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised
their fists in a Black Power salute during the medal ceremony, highlighting racial discrimination
in the United States. This act sparked global conversations about civil rights and racial equality,
demonstrating the impact sports can have on social and political discourse. Similarly, the 2014
Sochi Olympics brought attention to Russia’s anti-LGBT laws, with many athletes and activists
using the event to advocate for LGBTQ rights.
Moreover, allowing political expression in sports can foster understanding between nations and
raise awareness of important issues. Instances like the “ping-pong diplomacy” between the
United States and China in the early 1970s showcase how sports can be used as a diplomatic tool
to bridge divides and promote dialogue. By depoliticizing international sporting events, we risk
missing out on valuable opportunities to address pressing global issues and promote positive
change. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the political nature of sports and leverage it as a
force for good in the world.

Research by Giulianotti (2005) delves deeply into the intricate relationship between sports and
diplomacy, offering a nuanced perspective on the role of sports in promoting social change and
international cooperation. Giulianotti’s study examines numerous case studies, including the use
of sports in conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts. For instance, Giulianotti highlights the
role of sports in the reconciliation process between Rwanda and Uganda following the Rwandan
genocide. Sports, in this context, served as a medium through which both nations could engage
in constructive dialogue and foster goodwill, ultimately contributing to improved relations.
Additionally, Giulianotti’s research delves into the concept of sports diplomacy, where sports are
used as a diplomatic tool to achieve political objectives. The study analyzes instances such as the
“ping-pong diplomacy” between the United States and China, where table tennis matches helped
thaw relations between the two countries during a period of heightened political tension.
Giulianotti argues that sports can be a powerful tool for promoting understanding and
cooperation between nations, citing examples where sports have facilitated cultural exchanges
and diplomatic breakthroughs.
Overall, Giulianotti’s research provides a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted role of
sports in diplomacy and social change. By analyzing various case studies and historical
examples, the study underscores the potential of sports to transcend political and cultural
barriers, fostering goodwill and understanding between nations.

Argument 2 (second)
Research by Cornelissen and Swart (2012) provides detailed insights into the diplomatic impact
of sports, particularly in the context of South Africa’s post-apartheid era. The study highlights the
role of sports, particularly rugby and football, in fostering reconciliation and goodwill between
South Africa and other African nations. The authors argue that sporting events and exchanges
played a crucial role in promoting unity and common purpose among countries in the region. For
example, South Africa’s hosting of the 1995 Rugby World Cup and their victory in the
tournament helped to unite the country and improve its image internationally. Similarly, football
matches between South Africa and other African nations helped to strengthen ties and promote
understanding among diverse communities.
Furthermore, the study explores how sports can serve as a platform for promoting social change
and challenging dominant political ideologies. By examining the impact of sports on diplomacy,
the authors highlight how sports can be used to address complex political issues and promote
dialogue between nations. For instance, the study discusses how sports exchanges between South
Africa and other African countries helped to break down barriers and foster a sense of solidarity,
contributing to the region’s social and political transformation.
Overall, Cornelissen and Swart’s research provides compelling evidence of the diplomatic
potential of sports. By showcasing the role of sports in promoting reconciliation, unity, and
social change, the study underscores the importance of recognizing sports as more than just a
form of entertainment but as a powerful tool for diplomacy and international cooperation.

In conclusion, the debate over whether international sporting events should remain depoliticized
is multifaceted, but the arguments against depoliticization are compelling. Sporting events have
historically been powerful platforms for social and political messages, highlighting injustices and
advocating for change. Instances like the Black Power salute at the 1968 Olympics and “ping-
pong diplomacy” demonstrate sports’ ability to transcend borders and catalyze change. Allowing
political expression in sports can foster understanding between nations and raise awareness of
important issues. Research supports this view, highlighting sports’ potential to promote social
change and diplomacy.
Furthermore, international sporting events provide a unique platform for diplomacy, facilitating
dialogue and fostering mutual understanding among nations. The exchange of athletes and
cultural exchanges can help bridge cultural gaps and dispel stereotypes, showcasing the potential
of sports to promote peace and understanding. Studies like that of Cornelissen and Swart (2012)
provide evidence of the diplomatic impact of sports, particularly in fostering reconciliation and
goodwill among nations. Therefore, it is evident that depoliticization of international sporting
events overlooks their capacity to inspire meaningful dialogue and progress on a global scale.
Embracing the political nature of sports can harness their potential to promote peace,
understanding, and cooperation among nations.
I firmly stand on the side advocating against the depoliticization of international sporting events.
These events are not just about competition; they are about using a global platform to raise
awareness, promote human rights, and foster international understanding. To depoliticize them is
to miss an opportunity to drive meaningful change and promote a more just and cooperative
world.