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Olympics in Munich: opportunity or risk for the future of the city?
Munich is discussing the 2036 Olympic bid. Interior Minister Herrmann sees opportunities for growth, infrastructure and democracy.
Olympics in Munich: opportunity or risk for the future of the city?
The trend towards applying for the 2036, 2040 or 2044 Olympic Games in Munich is gaining momentum. The Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann (CSU) sees the Olympic Games as a golden opportunity, both for the Bavarian capital and for the entire state. His argument is based on the creation of jobs, the revival of tourism and positive impulses for research, innovation and technology. When considering a possible application, Herrmann referred to the advantages that the games can offer for restaurants, medium-sized businesses and start-ups, as investments in modern infrastructure and international visibility can be secured in the long term.( stmi.bayern.de )
But not everyone is as euphoric as Herrmann. There is noticeable resistance among the population, especially from the “NOlympia” alliance, which is vehemently opposed to the application. The critics are particularly concerned about the sustainability concepts and fear that the prices for living space in and around Munich could skyrocket after the games. A referendum, which is scheduled to take place on October 26th, could provide clarifying answers to the question of an Olympic future in Munich.( zeit.de )
Arguments for the application
Herrmann emphasizes that more than 90 percent of the required sports facilities in Munich already exist and are in use, which makes it more difficult to hold the games, but also more cost-effective. Herrmann reacts decisively to the allegations of gag contracts and economic exploitation by the IOC and demands concrete evidence. Finally, it cannot be ignored that the International Olympic Committee's procurement practices have reformed, as the upcoming Games in Paris should show.
The Bavarian state government, Mayor Dieter Reiter (SPD) and a majority in the Munich city council support the application. The minister is counting on a strong infrastructural development push, particularly in the areas of housing and local public transport. The state parliament vice-president of the Greens, Ludwig Hartmann, has also expressed his concerns. He criticizes the IOC, which ensures tax-free profits and makes the general public pay for possible losses. Herrmann, on the other hand, advocates placing the Olympic Games in democratic hands and not leaving it to autocratically ruled countries.( zeit.de )