“Together for a Shared Future” – is highlighted motto and main idea of Winter Olympic Games in Beijing 2022. The slogan was selected after an extensive process after collecting 79 sets of slogans from renowned Chinese universities. Of these, 11 slogans were shortlisted by experts from various fields. The final selection, “Together for a Shared Future”, is in line with the characteristics and functions of the motto, which is concise, easy to read, easy to remember, and calls for coming together, demonstrates the Olympic spirit and philosophy of Beijing 2022.

"Together for a Shared Future" is the slogan for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. [Photo/VCG]

The slogan reflects China’s commitment to overcome global challenges as a community with a shared future for mankind. The motto demonstrates unity and a collective effort, embodying the core values and vision of the Olympic Movement and the goal of pursuing world unity, peace and progress. The words also echo the common demands of the mankind that the world needs to work together towards a better tomorrow, especially under the special situation of the COVID-19 pandemic prevention.   

What does it mean for the world? Or how can we focus on this great idea incorporated in motto in today´s global perspective?

The philosophy of the Olympic Games is simple: sport can inspire peace. In Beijing 2022, athletes will set aside their political, religious and social differences and compete on a level playing field in the pursuit of excellence. Their sportsmanship and behaviour are examples of how countries and individuals can find constructive ways to uphold the values of respect and friendship.

The Olympic Truce was a crucial component of Ancient Greek Games. Every four years, hundreds of athletes from across Greece met at Olympia under the protection of a sacred truce (ekecheria) that brought a halt to the yearly cycle of violent city-state warfare and inaugurated a month-long festival of athleticism. The truce made the Games possible: it allowed athletes and spectators to travel in complete safety to participate.

The Olympic Games in Beijing are already providing several opportunities for international reconciliation.

Beijing 2022 Olympic Games contribute to peace and mutual understanding between countries and nations in the world. Pauses in fighting save lives. They make it possible for humanitarian workers to reach people in need. And they open up diplomatic space to negotiate lasting solutions. A truce is a prelude to true peace.

The 2022 Winter Games are an opportunity to show how sport can act as a real catalyst for peace among nations and people of all races, religions and creeds. What the world's athletes accomplish here in a spirit of peace and friendship will be forever captured to inspire and remind us all of what is possible when we set aside our differences in the pursuit of excellence.

By promoting equality, peace and changing norms, the Olympic Games 2022 provide more positivity, hope and national pride for a world that needs more good news and healing.

The Games give individual athletes and entire nations the ability to come together peacefully and watch their athletes compete at the highest level of competition. They give Olympic fanatics, like myself, something to look forward to in a world that needs as much positivity, enthusiasm and kindness as possible.

I can’t wait to watch this year’s Olympics on TV, although I can´t watch them in person due to safety reasons. Because I believe that sport has the power to change the world.  

Vision of Winter Olympic Games in Beijing is clear – to touch the soul of the nations and inspire the world by delivering an extraordinary Games experience, with lasting legacies.

The 2012 Winter Games will create a lasting legacy of sporting excellence. I hope that the extraordinary spirit of the Beijing´s Olympics will reside in the memories of all who participate in and watch the Games.

Written by Marian Macho from Beijing Foreign Studies University