Abstract

This study started with the main goal of examining the relationship between modern sports and public diplomacy. More specifically, it identified the need for academic examination of the role of sport in political analyses. The study aimed at examining the definitions of sports and public diplomacy; the historical examination of the political significance of sports on the national level and international level (through the examination of the history of Olympic Games and for young participants). The main methodology used in this paper included a historical, descriptive empirical examination. The historical analysis of the main terms as well as the agents involved focused on the study of the historical development of sports, Olympic Games and diplomacy. The descriptive analysis was used to present the historical life of Olympic Games. The empirical analysis focused on the topics and the values presented in the International Olympic Academy in the 46th International session for young participants. The object of study of this paper is multifold. The in-depth analysis of the sport’s world was conducted by analyzing the personalities, achievements and significance of sports figures and teams, the importance of the first Olympic Games as a creator of Diplomacy. Another object of this study was the structure and spirit of the Olympic Games. Lastly, the paper analyses the IOC, demonstrating their way of using sports as a tool of public diplomacy in direct and indirect way. In conclusion, the study demonstrated the urgent need and a strong potential for the cooperation between professional sports and participants of public diplomacy processes. Tracing the historical relationship between sports and politics, the paper concluded that sports are a suitable means for promoting cultural values, cooperation and the sense of patriotism amongst citizens and can be a powerful tool for a better World. Verf.-Referat