NYT "WHO Considers Possibility of 'No Spectators' at Tokyo Olympics"

WHO holds phone meeting with medical officials... Spokesperson states "No authority to decide on the event" drawing a clear line

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] The World Health Organization (WHO) is reported to have discussed the possibility of holding a fan-free Tokyo Olympics due to the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

On the 5th (local time), The New York Times (NYT) reported that the WHO held a teleconference last week to discuss various options regarding the Tokyo Olympics scheduled to be held from July 22, including the possibility of holding the event without spectators.

NYT cited a WHO insider, stating that healthcare officials participated in the teleconference and discussed the pros and cons of a fan-free event assuming the worst-case scenario for the Olympic Games. The plan would allow only event officials and broadcast personnel to be present on-site without spectators. The meeting lasted nearly two hours, but attendees emphasized that it was not an official discussion.

Tarik Jasarevic, WHO spokesperson, did not confirm whether the meeting took place, saying it "was not an official call." However, he clarified, "It is not WHO's role to decide on the cancellation or postponement of the Tokyo Olympics," adding, "We only provide reasonable and science-based public health recommendations."

Earlier, on the 4th (local time), at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) board meeting held in Lausanne, Switzerland, Thomas Bach, President of the IOC, stated, "The IOC will follow the advice of the WHO."

Mike Ryan, head of the WHO Emergency Response Team, also mentioned that "there was no special discussion regarding the Olympics."

It is reported that the Japanese side is not considering suspending the Tokyo Olympics. NYT also reported that as long as Japan insists on holding the Olympics, the IOC cannot cancel the event.

So far, six people have died from COVID-19 in Japan, and 348 cases have been confirmed.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.