Olympic Games as an Instrument of State Propaganda in Diverse Political Systems and Varied Regional Contexts

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to identify how international sporting events can serve as instruments of propaganda and to explore how different states utilize these events to advance specific political and national interests. Design/Methodology/Approach: The primary research methods employed in this study include a critical analysis of archival literary and visual sources, as well as contemporary literature. A descriptive narrative analysis was utilized to investigate key cases where sporting events, such as the Olympic Games, influenced bilateral and multilateral relations. The core research techniques applied in the analysis encompass methods of induction, deduction, synthesis, and observational approaches, which underpin the arguments supporting the generalized conclusions. Findings: The study provided significant insights into the use of sporting events as tools for image-building and political narrative construction, as well as the societal responses to these efforts. It demonstrated that international sporting events serve as an effective instrument for achieving specific political objectives. Practical Implications: The findings pave the way for a new direction in research on this topic, which, despite its significance and growing interest, remains insufficiently explored. Originality/Value: Through the synthesis of historical and contemporary sources, this article contributes to the understanding of the manipulative aspects of utilizing the lofty ideals of sports by societies with diverse political systems organizing international events.