Baku: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has sent the Athletes' Rights and Responsibilities Declaration (Athletes' Declaration) to Azerbaijan's National Olympic Committee (NOC). This declaration introduces a unified set of aspirational rights and responsibilities tailored for athletes within the Olympic Movement.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Athletes' Declaration is a historic initiative driven by athletes themselves. It was developed through a global consultation process led by a Steering Committee comprising 19 athlete representatives. The rights outlined in the declaration include the right to practice sport without discrimination, participate in a transparent and fair sporting environment, and access timely information related to athletes and competitions. Additionally, athletes are entitled to educational opportunities and the ability to generate income related to their sporting careers while respecting intellectual property rights.
The declaration also emphasizes fair and equal gender representation and the protection of athletes' mental and physical health. It ensures a safe competition environment and protection from abuse and harassment, along with elected athlete representation within Olympic sporting organizations. Furthermore, it guarantees the right to report unethical behavior without fear of retaliation, privacy protection, freedom of expression, and due process.
On the responsibility front, athletes are expected to uphold Olympic values, respect the integrity of sport by competing cleanly, and adhere to the IOC Code of Ethics. They must comply with applicable national laws and the rules of their respective sports and organizations. Athletes are encouraged to act as role models, promoting clean sport, respecting others within the sporting environment, and refraining from political demonstrations during competitions. They are also expected to participate in hearings when necessary, provide truthful testimony, and engage in athlete representative elections.
The Athletes' Rights and Responsibilities Declaration was first adopted at the 133rd IOC Session in Buenos Aires in October 2018.