The Canadian Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission (COC AC) recently shared its recommendations for Rule 50 as part of the International Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission (IOC AC) consultation process with athletes from around the world.  The COC AC consulted with the International Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission and other Athletes’ Commissions to inform its approach and process to gauge the views of Canadian athletes and determine its recommendations.

What is Rule 50?

Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter provides a framework to protect the neutrality of sport and the Olympic Games and prevent divisive disruptions such as protests and demonstrations. It states that:

  • Except as may be authorised by the IOC Executive Board on an exceptional basis, no form of advertising or other publicity shall be allowed in and above the stadia, venues and other competition areas which are considered as part of the Olympic sites. Commercial installations and advertising signs shall not be allowed in the stadia, venues or other sports grounds.
  • No kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.

The purpose of Rule 50:

The focus at the Olympic Games must remain on athletes’ performances, sport and the international unity and harmony that the Olympic Movement seeks to advance.

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