Notwithstanding any other arguments on the issue, it is our contention that it is the IOC itself which violates the Olympic Charter and brings the Movement into disrepute, by discriminating against Ms Thanou and by simply trying to apply double standards.

BBC: Exchange of letters between Thanou and IOC

"Despite the Olympic Charter's goal of fostering 'respect for universal fundamental ethical principles, ' the IOC awarded its most prestigious event, the Summer Games, to a government that arbitrarily imprisons, tortures, murders and harvests the organs of its own people, " Helms said in a statement.

CNN: Washington gives Beijing selection mixed reviews