For the past couple months I've basically made a list of the reasons
why I think the Olympics should not have been held in Sochi, Russia. Everything from
the unsuitable climate and the negative environmental impacts, to the terrorism
threats, the moral/political obstacles and the financial burden are challenges associated
with hosting an event of this size. I felt it was important to bring the broader
perspective of the Games to your attention because the risks, downfalls and
discriminatory part of a seemingly positive event isn't usually talked about
enough. If society talked about world issues, like the political problems
involved with the Olympics, rather than superficial topics, like celebrity crap,
situations like those discussed in these blogs can potentially be prevented.
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| World Cup in Brazil |
It’s important to note that not only do these types of issues occur in
the Olympics, but they are also involved in other international events. For
example, the World Cup has just started in Brazil, and many controversial
problems are unfolding. This World Cup is the most expensive yet and it is
being financed by the taxpayers. This 12-stadium event costs approximately
$11.5 billion and there has been many management issues, resulting in serious financial
losses. Protests have taken place because ridiculous amounts of money are being
spent on stadiums that will only be used a couple times, when those expenses
could have been directed towards improving the serious poverty problem in
Brazil (as an example) (1).
In other words, this World Cup in Brazil has been facing issues similar
to those of the 2014 Olympics: financial issues, construction delays, disturbed
residents, protests, etc. (2).
In both cases, I think a big issue is that these problems are being overlooked
and covered up. If these complications were acknowledge by the world, I think
something better would come from the situation. I feel that with the world
watching, the cities and countries would work to fix the problems, rather than
work to hide them.
Hopefully the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in South Korea will be less
controversial. However, the political tensions between South Korea and North
Korea can cause serious problems. Therefore, I suspect that this choice of this
future location was not the ideal decision. In summary, I think the location of
international events should not be in countries that have political, financial
and moral problems.Let’s stop ignoring these issues, so that the Olympics can truly be about sports!
I agree 100% with you Amanda, they should start being more picky about the locations of international events. Anyway, I've read all your blogs and let me tell you that your blogging skills are incredible. It's almost like you were born with this talent. Have fun in life, and who knows, maybe you'll have a career in making blogs!
ReplyDeleteAmanda, I have to say that I do agree with you! The location of large events such as the Olympics should be chosen carefully in order to avoid any major political conflicts that could take place. Throughout reading your blogs, it has made me realize that there are a lot of things that us as viewers of the Olympics are not fully made aware of.
ReplyDeleteVery thorough and fascinating research found throughout your Blog. Good commentary on very difficult issues. I really do wonder how all these cities survive financially AFTER these huge sporting events. Many stadiums go into disrepair or become abandoned entirely. Often, the local economy plummets. Is it all worthwhile for a temporary moment close to the sun? Icarus, we hardly knew ye.
ReplyDeleteGreat work throughout.