PODCAST:The Explanation
TITLE:What is sportswashing?
DATE:2023-12-25 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
In this episode of "The Explanation" from the BBC World Service, host Claire Graham discusses the concept of "sportswashing" with BBC News' Sports Editor, Dan Rowan. Sportswashing refers to the actions of countries, businesses, or individuals using sport to improve their reputation, deflect attention from negative activities like human rights abuses or environmentally harmful practices, and exert soft power. It is a form of public relations tactic often used to gain legitimacy and distract from less favorable aspects of a nation or company.
Rowan and Graham explore various historical and contemporary examples of sportswashing. The term is relatively recent, but the concept dates back to ancient Greece and includes notable instances like the Berlin Olympics of 1936 under Adolf Hitler and the use of Olympic success by communist countries during the Cold War. The episode also touches upon controversies in awarding major sports events, such as the FIFA World Cup to Russia and Qatar, and the suspicions of corruption in these decisions.
The discussion then shifts to how countries with criticized human rights records end up hosting big tournaments. They do so by bidding and investing substantial amounts of money, as seen in Saudi Arabia's involvement in various sports including Premier League football, Formula One, and professional golf. Sportswashing can manifest through direct investment in sports clubs, sponsoring teams, or hosting major events.
The episode examines the case of Saudi Arabia, frequently accused of sportswashing, which the Saudi authorities deny. They argue their investment in sport is part of a broader strategy to modernize the kingdom, boost tourism, and diversify the economy. However, human rights groups remain critical, especially given Saudi Arabia's record on women's rights, criminalization of homosexuality, restriction of free speech, and involvement in the conflict in Yemen.
Rowan highlights how sportswashing can sometimes inadvertently bring attention to human rights issues, as seen with Qatar's labor reforms during the buildup to the FIFA World Cup. Yet, in countries like Russia or China, hosting major sports events hasn't necessarily led to significant democratic reforms.
The episode also delves into how sports figures, such as Anthony Joshua and David Beckham, find themselves having to justify participation in events linked to countries with questionable human rights records. They often claim not to be politicians or experts on these issues but are increasingly pressured by human rights campaigners to take a stand.
Finally, the podcast discusses the enormous financial incentives in sportswashing, making it difficult for sports organizations to refuse investments from entities like Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). Despite some instances of pushback, the trend of significant Middle Eastern investment in Western sports appears to be continuing.
