Introduction
Every
year, countries vie for a chance to host international events, such
as the Olympics, World Cup, or United Nation conferences. Such large
events are often very expensive for the host countries. However,
they can also generate a lot of national income due to an increase
in tourism. There are many disadvantages and advantages to hosting
an international event. Today our debaters will discuss whether
it is good to host international events. Let’s see what Henry and
Ashley have to say.
Henry
(Constructive)
It is good to host international events. A country that hosts a
major international event is automatically placed in the world spotlight.
Therefore, the host country has a big opportunity to showcase all
the beautiful aspects of the country. This generally leads to a
boost in tourism. Also, a major international event can create enthusiasm
among citizens. Hosting an international event can improve the image
of the host country for foreigners. It can also increase nationalism
among citizens.
Ashley
(Constructive)
It is not good to host international events. The cost of building
facilities for these major events is too high. Taxpayers are generally
responsible for the funds to build these arenas. However, many taxpayers
want their money to go to more important causes, such as improving
the healthcare system or building more schools. Also, many of these
huge facilities can only be fully used for the international event.
It is a big waste of money!
Henry
(Rebuttal)
I assure you that all the money that the government spends on building
the facilities will be returned due to the surge in tourism during
the international event. Also, countries usually upgrade their public
transportation system to accommodate the influx of foreign tourists.
For example, for the 2012 Olympics in London, the government improved
the existing train services and created new rail links. Although
it is expensive to host an international event, there are many lasting
benefits.
Ashley
(Rebuttal)
If things go wrong during an international event, then the host
country will receive negative publicity all over the world. For
example, Brazil was greatly criticized for being ill-prepared to
host the 2014 World Cup. Also, many Brazilian citizens protested
the 2014 World Cup. They wanted the government to direct public
funds towards improving life for Brazilians rather than building
soccer stadiums. Hosting an international event can actually decrease
nationalism and damage the image of the host country.
Judge’s
Comments
The winner of today’s debate is Ashley. Henry committed the debate
fallacy called error of fact. Debaters commit this fallacy when
they make an unfounded claim. Henry claimed that all the money that
the government spends on building the facilities will be returned
due to a surge in tourism during the international event. However,
there is no evidence to support this lofty claim. It is important
to collect convincing facts to support your argument, but make sure
that they are 100 percent proven.