Sport Diplomacy: A Case Study on International Fencing and the War in Ukraine

Undergraduate Honors Thesis

Citations

Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/undergraduate_honors_theses/v405sb93v

Abstract

Fencing makes a compelling case study for analysis of non-state sporting actors (NSSAs) within the international political system because it is a sport whose legitimacy rests on the participants’ ability to adhere to its norms. Through competition, fencers develop empathy, respect, and communication skills - all key tenets of diplomacy and conduct in the international arena. The values of sportsmanship and honor parallel the characteristics expected in international diplomacy, thereby making sport diplomacy an interesting case for future study. This thesis examines fencing in the context of the Russo-Ukrainian War to examine the relationship between the role of NSSAs and international diplomacy.

Analysis of data collected on news articles, social media posts, and websites of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Fencing Federation (FIE) reveals that both organizations demonstrate a tendency to orient their policies to fit within the confines of state agendas, knowing that they receive their influence and power from the value that states place on international sport. Two participants in the international fencing community were interviewed on the issue. Based on analysis of their responses this thesis concludes that, while individual athletes have the ability to act as major players in international politics, the extent of their influence is dependent on the relationship between their state and sport institutions.

Creator