The IOC

The blame for the turmoil surrounding the Beijing Olympics and the anti-Chinese demonstrations lay squarely at the feet of the International Olympic Committee. The decision to allow China to host the games was either one of staggering naiveté, or was unduly influenced by monetary or other concerns not readily clear. The Olympic games should be given to countries that can demonstrate that they are already in line with Human Rights issues and the values of freedom. The games should never be used as a carrot or a stick, nor should it be tossed onto the political pitch as a mere football. The IOC must own up to a grievous mistake and bear the consequences.