Sochi Olympics Played Differently to Different Audiences

As host of the Sochi Winter Olympics, Russia was on display. For the home audience, the games were a huge success in terms of infrastructure investment, dazzling athletic displays and details in showmanship that reflected national pride. Western media introduced global audiences to Russia with negative reports about extremism over Chechnya, warm weather that led to poor track and slope conditions, hotel difficulties and rigid regulations of protests, reports Liz Clarke for the Washington Post. Unrest in nearby Ukraine also highlighted the European-Russian divide and a Cold War mentality of old. Security and high costs may have kept attendance down, but Russian President Vladimir Putin kept his word to the International Olympics Committee and put on a show of “unparalleled splendor.” The country is said to have invested more than $50 billion in the games and infrastructure. Individuals on the ground tend to ignore media reports during such events and find their own connections. And the small crowds combined with Olympic hospitality and good sportsmanship may have led to new understanding. – YaleGlobal