“The Olympic ideal is anchored in human rights: it embodies fairness, non-discrimination, respect and equal opportunities for all,” said Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights at a high-level panel discussion on promoting human rights through sport and the Olympic ideal during the Human Rights Council.

The groundswell of support across the world after the death of George Floyd in May 2020, and the continued activism of people of African descent, their communities, and others in standing up against racism across the world should be supported, says UN Human Rights Chief, Michelle Bachelet, adding that their voices must be heard and protected.