INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE (IOC) PRESIDENT THOMAS BACH HIGHLIGHTED THE IOC’S INTENT TO ACHIEVE ITS PEACE MISSION THROUGH SOLIDARITY AND WITHIN THE REMIT OF THE OLYMPIC GAMES DURING HIS OPENING STATEMENT TODAY TO THE UNITED NATIONS (UN) HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL’S PANEL DISCUSSION.

The Olympic Games have expanded from 241 to more than 10,000 competitors since the original reestablishment in Athens with the 1896 Games. Dozens of additions and changes have been made in the Olympic program since 1896, with almost 100 events being added since 1980 alone. Although enthusiasts of many activities hope to see their avocations become Olympic sports, only a few receive one of the coveted slots in the Olympic program.