The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has urged global sports federations to avoid scheduling events in Indonesia in light of the country’s recent decision to deny entry to Israeli gymnasts participating in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta. This move, linked to Indonesia’s response to the ongoing military actions in Gaza, has compelled the IOC to halt all discussions regarding Indonesia’s bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics until a commitment is made for non-discriminatory participation based on nationality.
Indonesia, the largest Muslim-majority country, has long expressed a desire to host the Olympics. However, the IOC’s recent announcement presents significant challenges to the nation’s ambitions. The denial of visas to Israeli athletes has sparked criticism both domestically and internationally. Senior legal affairs minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra attributed this decision to opposition from the Jakarta government and various Islamic clerical groups, prompting outrage from the Israel Gymnastics Federation, which labeled the situation shocking and heartbreaking.
In response to the controversy, the IOC reiterated its position that host nations must adhere to the Olympic Charter and allow all athletes to compete without discrimination. Consequently, the IOC is reassessing its qualification principles to facilitate access for athletes of all nationalities in future Olympic qualifying events. In an effort to address the implications of this situation, the Indonesian Olympic Committee and the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) have been called to a meeting at the IOC headquarters.
Indonesia’s ongoing criticism of Israel, particularly regarding the Gaza conflict, adds complexity to its sporting aspirations, as there are no formal diplomatic relations between the two nations. Nonetheless, the IOC’s stance highlights a commitment to inclusivity, and there remains a hopeful outlook that international sporting events could one day foster greater unity, enabling athletes from across the globe to compete side by side despite existing geopolitical challenges.