The IRF Community and Coptic Solidarity are circulating a letter containing a formal appeal to Dr. Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), urging the IOC to investigate and address alleged systemic discrimination against Coptic athletes in Egypt. The authors, representing various organizations and individuals, highlight that despite Copts making up nearly 15% of the Egyptian population, they are severely underrepresented in national and international sports, including the Olympics. The letter outlines specific instances of exclusion and discrimination faced by Coptic athletes, particularly in football, and calls for corrective actions. These include creating reporting mechanisms for discrimination, appointing diversity officers, setting participation quotas, and removing religious identifiers from sports club registrations. The letter warns that if Egypt does not comply, the IOC should consider suspending the country from future Olympic participation. The urgency of the matter is emphasized, especially since Egypt is reportedly considering a bid to host future Olympic Games.

Informative Sources:

• Reference List of Publications and Actions taken on behalf of Coptic Athletes