The Neutrality Paradox in Sport: Governance, Politics and Human Rights after Ukraine

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, sanctions were implemented that banned Russia from most international sports. This book explores the root problem that sport governing bodies have had with politics since their inception, arguing that their neutrality principles are invalidated by their actions. It offers interdisciplinary research with empirical examples and addresses a growing appetite in academia on how sport governing bodies will reconcile their commitments to societal progress while maintaining neutrality.

Format: Hardback
Length: 118 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, severe sanctions were imposed that barred Russia from participating in most international sports events. As a consequence, sport governing bodies (SGBs) have undergone a significant shift in their traditional stance of neutrality, reaching a point of no return. In the face of this challenging situation, this book seeks to explore the future of SGBs. It delves into the underlying problem that sport governing bodies have grappled with since their inception: the paradoxical treatment of neutrality. This issue is evident in their awarding of Mega-Sport Events to authoritarian states and their own desire to make a positive impact by promoting human rights and sustainable development. Whether viewed as good or bad, the author argues that the SGBs' neutrality principles are invalidated by their actions.

This book offers interdisciplinary research with empirical examples, presenting a pioneering study of neutrality and autonomy in sport in the context of the Ukraine crisis. It addresses a growing interest in academia regarding how SGBs will balance their commitments to societal progress while maintaining their neutrality. The book is written in an engaging and analytical manner, making it valuable reading for researchers, students, organizations, and policy makers interested in sport management, as well as those seeking to understand the complex dynamics of sports in a global context.

Weight: 313g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031156793
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022