Monitor: All the News of the World - World comment on allegations of corruption in the International Olympic Committee

ONE OF the biggest problems in tackling corruption is defining it. When does nepotism and cronyism become bribery and corruption? There has been demonstrated corruption involved in the granting of the 2002 Olympic Games to Salt Lake City. But what of the blatant favours asked by, and in some cases given to, IOC delegates in Melbourne's 1996 Olympics bid? Had the six African delegates been given the new cars they asked for in return for their votes, it would have constituted corruption. Despite the latest rash of headlines, Australia does not have a habit of corruption. What we must guard against is allowing such a climate to develop. That is why those found to have engaged in seriously corrupt behaviour need to know that they will be subjected to, if not criminal penalties, the most severe punishment of all - public disgrace.

The Age, Australia

THIS AFFAIR will enable us to return to the controllable organisations of the Olympics. We must avoid economics taking the upper hand and dictating its law to the organisational committees. The IOC must also agree to becoming somewhat more condensed: 115 members is too much. 25 or 30 would be far more easy to regulate. The IOC is representative of society but not representative of sport.

Le Monde, France

IT IS appropriate that delegates be treated to a high standard of accommodation and dining and receive some gifts. When the giving of gifts turns into corruption can be a matter of degree, but is principally a matter of transparency. The test is whether those giving or receiving would want it publicly known. The possibility that it might become public is a deterrent, which is why the media mentality is so essential.

Sydney Morning Herald,

Australia

THE EUROPEAN press has just begun investigating IOC head Juan Antonio Samaranch and some of his associates, including some roguish characters who would never make it to the cover of a Wheaties box. Stay tuned, sports fans.

The Washington Post, US