According to the guidelines released by the committee, athletes are not allowed to make political, religious, or ethnic demonstrations while on the field of play, within the Olympic Village and during the presentation of medals and awards.
They are, however, free to make statements to the press outside the village, in meetings, and on social media.
“We believe that the example we set by competing with the world’s best while living in harmony in the Olympic Village is a uniquely positive message to send to an increasingly divided world. This is why it is important, on both a personal and a global level, that we keep the venues, the Olympic Village and the podium neutral and free from any form of political, religious or ethnic demonstrations,” the IOC said in a statement.
Displaying political symbols, refusal to follow the Ceremonies’ protocol, and gestures of a political symbol are examples of protests, according to the IOC.
The committee went further to make it clear that offenders will be subjected to disciplinary action on a case-by-case basis.
“The mission of the Olympic Games to bring the entire world together can facilitate the understanding of different views, but this can be accomplished only if everybody respects this diversity,” the IOC said.
The Tokyo Olympics is set to begin on 24 July.
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