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Why these three flags are banned from the 2024 Olympics
As the world gathers to celebrate the Olympic Games in 2024, the absence of certain national flags from the event raises significant questions. The flags of Taiwan, Russia, and Belarus are notably absent, each for distinct reasons rooted in geopolitical complexities and ethical standards upheld by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Taiwan
Taiwan’s exclusion from displaying its national flag at the Olympics is a consequence of its complex political status. Officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan is a self-governing democratic entity. However, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) considers Taiwan a part of its territory, and this “One China” policy is recognized by the United Nations and the IOC.
Due to pressure from the PRC, Taiwan has been barred from competing under its official name and flag since 1981. Instead, Taiwanese athletes participate under the name “Chinese Taipei” and use a specially designed flag featuring the Olympic rings and a stylized emblem. This compromise allows Taiwan to partake in the Olympics while avoiding direct political conflict with China.
Russia
Besides Russia’s unlawful invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia’s absence from the Olympic flag display is the result of severe doping violations…
