China’s cheating threatens to wreck Paris Olympics, US anti-drugs chief says – POLITICO

National anti-doping regulators such as CHINADA are supposed to closely monitor athletes in competition and training for evidence of illegal drug-taking, while WADA — which is funded by the Olympic Movement and national governments — coordinates anti-doping rules across the world.   “The Chinese aren’t being held to those same standards by their own national … Read more

Paris’ Olympic promise falls short for unhoused people – POLITICO

Police evacuated an asylum-seeker encampment in central Paris, relocating its inhabitants 300km away from the French capital Non-profit organizations say this is part of a “social cleanse” ahead of the Olympics, while authorities say these procedures aren’t linked to the Games. pic.twitter.com/reZmck91fm — Victor Goury-Laffont (@Victorglaf) April 30, 2024 “The way this is being handled … Read more

‘Hit them in the face,’ Lukashenko tells Belarusian athletes ahead of Olympics – POLITICO

“Anger in sports is important,” Lukashenko said. “If you have already qualified and are going there in a neutral status, hit them in the face, show them that you are a real Belarusian,” he continued. Lukashenko has not clarified whether his comments were made in a spirit of sporting competitiveness, or if the implication was … Read more

French Senate votes to implement strike-free days in transport sector ahead of Olympics – POLITICO

“The struggle French people face (during transport strikes) underlines the responsibility that weighs on companies and unions to avoid ending up in these situations,” Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete said. “I believe that we must first and foremost reinforce dialogue within the transport sector to avoid strikes.” But not all supporters of French President Emmanuel Macron … Read more

Macron to call for Ukraine-Russia cease-fire during Paris Olympics – POLITICO

Macron said France would respect the decision of the Olympic Committee to allow Russian athletes to compete under a neutral flag.  “Of course, we will closely monitor their performances, so that no one takes advantage of the athletes in this situation,” he was quoted as saying through the interpreter. The French president also weighed in … Read more

What’s in store for Europe in 2024? – POLITICO

This isn’t just any new year — 2024 in the political calendar means mega elections in Europe, the U.S., the U.K. and beyond. Our EU Confidential crew predicts how these elections could impact pressing issues around the European Union. Bringing together the collective knowledge of some of POLITICO’s best and brightest reporters — Barbara Moens, … Read more