Sochi Games President Dmitry Chernyshenko on Sunday insisted that
a recently approved Russian anti-gay law would not affect next year's
Winter Olympics.
Speaking to assembled members of the International Olympic
Committee (IOC) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Chernyshenko stated that
the law does not run afoul of the Olympic Charter's prohibition
against any form of discrimination.
Russia's “gay propaganda” law prohibits the positive portray
of gay men and lesbians in a venue where minors might be present,
effectively banning Gay Rights marches and similar demonstrations.
But it remains unknown where the line is drawn and whether holding
hands or wearing an expressive shirt would violate the law.
“The Russian Constitution guarantee equality of rights and
freedom and it explicitly prohibits any prejudice against religion,
race and sex,” Chernyshenko
is quoted as saying by the AFP.
“We make this clear that the recent law does not prohibit
homosexuality and does not contradict any element of the Olympic
Charter.”
“We are absolutely confident there will be no conflicts in that
regard. The law will have no impact on the ability of athletes, fans
or a member of the Olympic Family to participate at the Games,” he
added.
IOC rules forbid athletes to demonstrate or make political
gestures. Officials have reiterated on several occasions that
athletes competing in Sochi would be reminded of the rules.