By John Q. Hosedrinker 
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Australia denies visa to Dutch Olympian convicted of child rape, and frankly, that’s exactly how it should be framed. Forget the “Olympian” part; the more important descriptor here is “convicted child rapist.” This isn’t just about a sporting event; it’s about basic human decency and the values a nation chooses to uphold.
The details of Steven van de Velde’s crime are horrific. The fact that he groomed a 12-year-old girl online, traveled to see her, gave her alcohol, confined her under a staircase, raped her repeatedly, and then instructed her on how to obtain a morning-after pill is utterly sickening. This is not a case of a momentary lapse in judgment; this is a calculated and predatory act. The very idea that he might be allowed to compete in any international event, let alone enter a country like Australia, is infuriating.
Australia has a well-established system for refusing temporary visas, known as the “character test.” It allows the country to deny entry to individuals deemed to be a risk to the community, and in this case, it’s difficult to imagine a clearer example of someone who poses such a risk. It’s not just about the crime itself, but also about the potential for further harm, the message it sends about tolerance, and the safety of the community.
The contrast between the severity of the crime and the leniency of the sentence van de Velde received is deeply troubling. The fact that he served only 13 months for such a heinous offense is a travesty of justice. The Dutch justice system, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for even considering letting him compete, have failed in their responsibilities.
The whole situation highlights a larger issue of priorities and values within the world of sports. The Olympics are supposed to represent the best of humanity, showcasing athleticism, sportsmanship, and integrity. Yet, time and again, we see instances where the focus is on profits, power, and image, often at the expense of ethics and human decency.
The fact that Australia has denied van de Velde a visa, while not a surprise, is a welcome act of defiance against this kind of complacency. It is a sign of integrity and a clear statement that some things are simply unacceptable.
Australia is also not afraid to use its discretion, refusing visas to other figures who may pose some sort of risk to the Australian community. This includes political commentators and even famous artists, showing the country is consistent in upholding its visa policies, even if there are some who might disagree with some of the choices.
The Olympic Games should have very clear and strict criteria to exclude people such as these, regardless of how popular they may be. And the fact that they haven’t is a testament to the lack of standards within the organization.
The fact that van de Velde is now married and has a child himself is another disturbing aspect. The cognitive dissonance involved in this scenario is almost impossible to comprehend. The fact that his wife is a police officer with a degree in psychology just adds to the disbelief.
The leniency of the Dutch legal system is yet another layer to the story. The fact that the initial four-year sentence was reduced, and the crime reclassified, sends a message that is both troubling and infuriating. This does not represent the feelings of the Dutch people however, who are as disgusted as any normal person.
It’s disheartening to see how organizations like the IOC seem to prioritize money and power over upholding basic moral principles. The fact that van de Velde was even considered as a competitor represents an organizational failure. This is why many people have lost respect for the Olympics altogether. The final nail in the coffin was seeing people such as him being allowed to compete.
Australia is absolutely right to deny him entry. This is a matter of protecting its citizens, upholding its values, and sending a clear message that child rapists are not welcome. Let’s hope other countries follow suit. This is a battle that goes far beyond a single athlete or sporting event. It’s a fight for what we consider acceptable and what we consider unacceptable in our society.