Germany's Sports Minister Condemns Indonesia's Exclusion of Israeli Gymnasts from World Championships
Christiane Schenderlein, Germany's State Minister for Sports and Volunteer Affairs, has spoken out against the political dispute surrounding the upcoming World Gymnastics Championships. The event, hosted by Indonesia, has been marred by the refusal of visas to Israeli athletes, a move criticized by Schenderlein and the German federal government.
Schenderlein believes that sporting competitions should not be used as a platform for political disputes. She has expressed her concern that the exclusion of Israeli gymnasts undermines the autonomy of sports and violates the principles of non-discrimination and human rights.
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has not issued a decision excluding Israeli gymnasts. However, the German Gymnastics Federation and other national bodies have demanded that FIG ensure Israel's athletes receive visas and can compete without discrimination. Despite FIG's stance and ongoing appeals, Indonesia has refused to grant visas, leading to Israel's exclusion.
Schenderlein welcomes the International Olympic Committee's opinion on this matter. She hopes that the World Championship will be held in accordance with the principles of non-discrimination and human rights, and that the political dispute will not overshadow the sporting event.
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