State of Mankind

The cost of silence: Beijing Winter Olympics; Gold medalist avoids questions on dual citizenship



Athletes competing in the Beijing Winter Olympics are faced with a challenge. And it's more than just the competition. Many are now stuck in a dilemma between winning medals and keeping their morals.

Embroiled in controversy, the Games have prompted scrutiny, calls for boycotts, and pushback. But in the end, the Winter Olympics have gone forward.

Now caught in the middle are the athletes. Speaking out could cost them more than just a place on the winner's platform—but staying silent could deal a blow to their conscience.

In this special report, we look at the choice athletes competing in Beijing are forced to make, how the fear of speaking out has spread around the world, and what can be done to stem that threat.