The Olympic Games are in full swing at Rio de Janeiro and it is an event that I have since a child always tried to watch. What other event can bring together a planet of 205 nations representing over 11,000 athletes in a competition where triumph, defeat, and sportsmanship are on full display?
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has published a 115 page Code of Ethics for all participants and members. It is a great read and well worth perusing through the content.
The Principles and Integrity of Conduct is applicable to any business and non-profit organization. Yet, many fail to take the time to build their moral and cultural fabric. It is a head scratcher in every way and a big mistake.
Please permit me to share a few key highlights:
“Respect for the universal fundamental ethical principles is the foundation of Olympism.”
Respect for international conventions on protecting human rights insofar as they apply to the Olympic Games’ activities and which ensure in particular:
– respect for human dignity;
– rejection of discrimination of any kind on whatever grounds, be it race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status;
– rejection of all forms of harassment, be it physical, professional or sexual, and any physical or mental injuries.
Article 2
The Olympic parties must use due care and diligence in fulfilling their mission. At all times, they must act with the highest degree of integrity, and particularly when taking decisions, they must act with impartiality, objectivity, independence and professionalism.
They must refrain from any act involving fraud or corruption. They must not act in a manner likely to tarnish the reputation of the Olympic Movement.
In any organization we know there are individuals who will put their own interests first and take shortcuts that may put the collective welfare of others at risk. Unfortunately, this plays out every day in ways most of us don’t see.
There is no place for this and everyone is responsible and accountable for their own conduct. Everyone must enforce a higher code of ethics; and the Olympics reminds us how powerful and relevant this spirit is.
My friends please remember this: respect, consideration, and courtesy matter a lot. Treat others fairly, decently, and equally.
Consult your moral compasses every chance you get and monitor your progress.
You know the battle cry: do your best each day. No one can ask more or less from any of us.
All the best/blessings, Mark
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