Italian Town Boycotts Climbing Awards Ceremony Over Gaza Conflict

The municipality of Arco, Italy, has announced it will boycott the awards ceremony of the Youth Climbing World Championships, an event hosted in the town from July 18-25. The decision stems from a refusal to remain indifferent to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the occupied territories of the West Bank.

Mayor Arianna Fiorio stated that while the administration attended the opening ceremony out of respect for the organizers and young athletes, they believe institutions must consistently uphold their values. "Sport must be a carrier of peace, dialogue, and respect for human rights," the municipality's statement read, explaining the boycott as a reaffirmation of solidarity with the Palestinian people and all conflict victims.

The municipality specifically highlighted the presence of an Israeli delegation among the 759 young athletes from 68 countries. "We cannot accept the killing of over 20,000 children," the statement declared, calling the human cost of the conflict unacceptable. The local government views the systematic violations of international law and human rights as crimes against humanity.

Arco emphasized that this action is not directed against the athletes but is a concrete gesture rooted in the conviction that sport should promote universal values like human dignity, equality, and respect for human rights. The municipality wished all participants fair competition and expressed hope for a future of peace, justice, and coexistence.