Introduction to the Issue
Israeli gymnasts will be unable to compete in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta later this month. The world’s highest sports court rejected two requests for "interim measures" from the Israeli Federation (IGF), leading to this outcome.
Background of the Case
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected a request to "take the necessary measures to ensure Israeli participation in the Championships, or, alternatively, to postpone or cancel the Championships." This decision was made after the IGF and six gymnasts scheduled to compete in the event filed an appeal.
Visa Refusal
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) argued that it could not force the Indonesian government to issue visas. The Indonesian government announced last Thursday that it would not issue entry visas to members of the Israeli delegation in solidarity with the Palestinians.
Response from the International Gymnastics Federation
The FIG responded to the news by saying it "notes the Indonesian government’s decision not to issue a visa to the Israeli delegation registered for the event and recognizes the challenges faced by the host country in organizing this event." The FIG hopes to create an environment in which athletes around the world can play sports safely and with peace of mind as quickly as possible.
Previous Appeals
The IGF’s first appeal, which was also rejected, called for the FIG’s declaration to be repealed. Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, has no formal relations with Israel, but Israeli citizens can apply for a short-term visa through the "calling visa" process.
The World Artistic Gymnastics Championships
More than 500 athletes from 79 countries are expected to take part in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, which will take place from October 19 to 25. The event will proceed without the participation of Israeli gymnasts due to the visa refusal.
