Like all major international sporting events, the Olympic Games are held in strict accordance with the established regulations. These regulations are clearly spelled out in the Olympic Charter - a set of basic principles of Olympism and rules adopted by the International Olympic Committee. The Program of Recognition of the Olympic Games is also established here. What is it, and what is it for?
The Olympic Recognition Program, or as it is also called, Olympic Recognition, is recognition granted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). It is a criterion for belonging to the Olympic movement. Obtaining IOC recognition is considered mandatory for the national Olympic committee of each country. Otherwise, the sports team of this state will not officially be able to participate in the Olympics. International sports federations (IFs) and non-governmental organizations are also recognized by the IOC, whose activities and goals are consistent with the principles of the current Olympic Charter.
Olympic recognition can be either permanent or temporary, granted for a fixed or indefinite period. In the first case, the decision to grant recognition is made at the Session in the manner established by the IOC Executive Board. The decision on granting as well as withdrawing provisional recognition is also made by the IOC Executive Board.
Recognition for Olympic sports
Sports included in the program of the Olympic Games must also receive official Olympic recognition from the IOC. Only IFs that have previously received Olympic recognition can apply for the inclusion of a particular sport in the Olympic program. The main requirement for all Olympic sports is widespread popularity in most countries of the world. The only exception to this rule is bobsleigh.
The future of the Olympic Games
The IOC also cares about the development of non-Olympic sports that meet the requirements of the Olympic Charter. The IOC grants recognition to the international federations governing these sports. Thus, competitions in this sport can be included in the program of continental or regional games held under the leadership of the International Olympic Committee. Obtaining Olympic recognition at this level allows us to say that in the future a particular sport can be included in the Olympic program.
