Finally! That’s all I can say! Finally!
The Swedish Minister for Sport, Lena Adelsohn Liljeroth, finally took a stand today against the homophobic Russian regime and announced she will not be attending the Olympic Games Opening or Closing ceremonies in a couple of weeks. In declining the invitation, she joins USA, Germany and France who have previously stated they will be boycotting the ceremonies.
Many people say sport and poltics do not belong together. However, while each individual sportsperson absolutely has the right to fulfill their personal dreams of an Olympic medal, regardless of the country where the games are being held, I believe that governments should have a different perspective. By attending a high-profile event in a country which has dubious human rights, politicians are indirectly condoning the actions of that country. By not attending, politicians are taking a stand against oppression and violence.
I am today proud of Lena Adelsohn Liljeroth and hope that other Swedish politicians and dignitaries will follow suit.