Should We Ban the American Flag from Chess Competitions, Just Like the Russian Flag Is
In recent times, the chess community has been embroiled in a controversial debate surrounding the ban of Russian players from FIDE competitions due to the conflict in Ukraine. While the concern for the well-being of individuals affected by geopolitical issues is valid, it highlights a stark hypocrisy – the selective application of bans based on nationality.
The Author's Perspective: A Voice from Serbia
As someone from Serbia, a country that experienced savage military aggression from a USA-led coalition of NATO countries in 1999, I view this debate through a unique lens. Despite my country being directly affected by geopolitical conflicts, I believe sport should remain untouched by political agendas. 'Gens una sumus,' the chess community's mantra of 'We are one people,' reminds us that, irrespective of nationality or historical conflicts, the unity of chess enthusiasts should transcend divisive political narratives. To clarify, even though I will never forget or forgive the mass destruction of my country by American forces, I would never advocate banning American chess players from international tournaments or forbidding them to play under their national flag. I might hold a grudge against the US government for many things, but I do not wish to punish American players for it, regardless of their personal beliefs about that government and its actions.
The Glaring Inconsistency
One must question why the chess community is quick to advocate for the exclusion of Russian players in the wake of the Ukrainian war, yet remains silent when addressing the actions of American players in light of their nation's historical and recent military interventions.
Consider the military interventions in Serbia, Libya, Syria, Somalia, and Iraq. The United States has been involved in conflicts with profound consequences on these nations' sovereignty and well-being. Yet, the chess community has not called for banning American players in FIDE competitions. Has any other country ever dropped an atomic bomb? What about napalm that killed thousands of Vietnamese, victims of American aggression? Do I need to remind the chess community of Madeleine Albright's claim that the deaths of thousands of Iraqi children were worth her cause?
Championing Fair Play and Consistency
This inconsistency raises questions about the ethics and principles guiding such decisions. Is it fair to selectively target players based on their nationality while ignoring others' actions? Chess, transcending borders and ideologies, should be free from geopolitical biases.
Advocating fair play and sportsmanship requires a balanced, unbiased approach, acknowledging the complexities of global affairs and avoiding reactions that disproportionately affect players based on nationality.
Gens Una Sumus: Unity in Diversity
The hypocrisy in calling to ban Russian players from FIDE competitions demands introspection within the chess community. Addressing this double standard ensures a more equitable playing field and upholds the integrity and values that chess should embody – fairness, inclusivity, and respect for all players, regardless of national origin. In conclusion, the author's perspective from Serbia highlights the importance of recognizing nations' nuanced histories and the impact of geopolitical conflicts. This call for consistency is not a plea for retaliation or exclusion but an appeal for fairness and equal treatment. Chess has the potential to unite individuals despite historical scars. Gens una sumus – in chess, we are one. So, either stop harassing Russian players and give them their flag back, or adopt the same attitude towards players from all countries that have attacked another. Do not be hypocrites."
