Main content

Beijing 2022: human rights and athlete activists

How alleged human rights abuses in China are casting a shadow over the Beijing Winter Olympics

With the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing starting next month, we discuss how alleged human rights abuses in China have prompted diplomatic boycotts by countries including the USA and UK.

We hear from US basketball star Enes Kanter Freedom, one of China鈥檚 most outspoken critics, who is calling for athletes to boycott the Games.

Former figure skater Jessica Shuran Yu says the treatment of tennis star Peng Shuai triggered memories of the abuse she says she received while training in China.

And we also hear from UK Sport chair Dame Katherine Grainger on GB medal hopes for the Games and from the 成人快手鈥檚 China correspondent Stephen McDonell on the final Olympic preparations.

China denies human rights abuses and says the Peng Shuai controversy has been "maliciously hyped up".

Panel: Sarah Mulkerrins, Dan Roan, Alex Capstick

Producer: Sam Sheringham

Available now

45 minutes

More episodes

See all episodes from The Sports Desk

Take the Menstruation Myths Quiz

Discover more about the menstrual cycle and athletic performance.

Podcast

  • The Sports Desk

    The biggest talking points in sport explored, featuring interviews with those who matter.