In July 2024, Brazilians cheered and celebrated the dedication and determination of the athletes who represented our country at the Paris Olympics. The Brazilian delegation included more women than men—163 versus 126, marking a historic moment in the Olympic Games. By the end of the event, they proved that they were not just numbers. Most of the twenty podium finishes achieved by the team were the result of female athletes’ efforts.
This, however, is a reality far removed from countries like Afghanistan, where, following the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, women and girls are banned from participating in sports, studying, or working. Despite significant challenges, such as political instability and limited resources, Afghan athletes managed to stand out and compete on a global stage, reflecting their talent and perseverance.
At the Paris Olympics, Afghanistan was represented by six athletes—three men and three women—adhering to the gender equality norms for delegations. The International Olympic Committee worked with the president of the Afghan National Olympic Committee, who is in exile, with the aim of sending a message of resilience both to Afghanistan and the world, showing that there is still hope and that it is possible to keep fighting.
The three Afghan female athletes, competing in cycling and athletics, now live and train outside the country and represented their homeland with the tricolor flag (black, green, and red) instead of the white flag currently used by the Taliban. Afghan authorities were also banned from participating in the games.
The Afghan team’s participation in 2024 was especially significant, symbolizing ongoing efforts to promote sports and international representation despite internal difficulties. The athletes’ presence at the event is a sign of hope and unity for the country and an inspiring example of how sports can connect and strengthen nations.
In addition to the six athletes from the delegation, five more Afghan athletes participated in the games representing the refugee Olympic team. This team was composed of 23 men and 13 women from countries across three continents: Africa, the Americas, and Asia.
The participation of these athletes in the Olympics was of utmost importance for raising visibility for the refugee cause. It aimed to show the world that people from various countries have been forced to leave their homes, families, and homeland to survive. Despite all the challenges they face, they continue to fight and dream of a future in a world that believes in equality, respect, and solidarity.
