By Coptic Solidarity –
Eight years after first raising the issue of discrimination against Coptic athletes in Egypt with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), they have finally replied to us. This response came on the heels of sending a multi-faith letter with signatures from other non-profit organizations and individuals.
Unfortunately, the IOC did not take our submission seriously and actually replied, “Please note that we have also discussed with the Egyptian Olympic Committee (EOC), and they have clearly confirmed that there is absolutely no discrimination in their selection process for the Olympic Games…”
That the EOC should state they practice absolutely no discrimination is to be expected. What is shocking is the fact that the IOC accepted this response without conducting further investigation.
Clearly, much work remains to end discrimination against Coptic athletes.
Coptic Solidarity sent a reply to the IOC on October 1, 2024, once again urging them to investigate the issue and to take appropriate action.