The guest is the mastermind behind the Olympic Broadcasting Services, responsible for enhancing the viewing experience at the Paris Summer Olympics. He discusses the debut of the Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia and the mixed reactions due to the country's human rights record. The conversation shifts to innovative broadcasting technologies revolutionizing sports engagements. They also touch on the changing landscape of food delivery in Mexico, driven by online shopping trends, and the dedication of Wikipedia volunteers in keeping the platform updated.
The decision to host the Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia raises serious concerns about human rights and the notion of sportswashing.
Advanced broadcasting technology during the Olympics enhances viewer engagement and redefines how audiences experience major sporting events globally.
Deep dives
The Esports Olympics and Human Rights Concerns
The announcement of the Olympic Esports Games being hosted in Saudi Arabia has sparked significant debate, particularly regarding the Kingdom's human rights record. Critics highlight concerns about the treatment of women and LGBTQ+ individuals, suggesting that hosting such an event is an attempt at 'sportswashing'—distracting from serious human rights abuses. For instance, a young woman was imprisoned for sharing videos of herself not wearing traditional clothing, showcasing the restrictive environment regarding personal expression. While some in the esports community believe engagement can lead to progress, many activists argue that the hosting choice reflects a stark contradiction to the values of freedom and competition that sports typically represent.
Innovative Broadcasting Technologies at the Olympics
The use of advanced technology in the broadcasting of the Olympics has significantly enhanced viewer experience, allowing for unprecedented coverage of events. Olympic Broadcasting Services reported an impressive 11,000 hours of content from the recent Paris Games, utilizing multi-camera setups and artificial intelligence to deliver detailed replays and analyses. Innovations like stroboscopic analysis in fast-paced sports enable viewers to better appreciate athlete performances and techniques that are often difficult to follow in real-time. This shift towards more diverse and tech-driven storytelling continues to redefine how global audiences engage with major sporting events.
The Shift in Mexico's Gig Economy
In Mexico City, many gig economy workers are transitioning from food delivery to package deliveries due to the surge in popularity of Chinese online shopping platforms like Timu and AliExpress. These platforms offer cheaper shipping and attract a higher volume of customers, allowing drivers to potentially deliver 80 to 100 packages daily versus a handful of food orders. This change is occurring amidst rising costs and challenges associated with food delivery, as gig workers find it increasingly difficult to make a sustainable income. Despite potential negative impacts on local food delivery services, the ongoing demand for gig jobs indicates a diversified but precarious employment landscape.
We take a look at a recent announcement from the International Olympic Committee that the inaugural Olympic esports games will be hosted in Saudi Arabia next year. While many have welcomed the competitive video gaming event, others have questioned the choice of host, because of the Kingdom's human rights record.
The summer Olympics have come to a close in Paris, so we speak to the man behind the huge television operation there, using new tech to deliver the action to you - from almost every possible angle.
From China to Mexico - how online shopping is changing the economics of restaurant food deliveries in a mega city.
And what does it take to keep Wikipedia up-to-date ? We find out.
Presenter: Alasdair Keane
Producer: Tom Quinn
(Photo: A competitor takes part in a motorsport event during Olympic esports week in Singapore, 2023. Credit: Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)
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