The main function of a National Olympic Committee is to ensure the representation of sportsmen and women from its country at the Olympic Games, but it is also encumbent con the Organisation to ensure the protection and the development of the Olympic Movement and amateur sports, and thus:

1. Teach and encourage respect of the fundamental principles of Olympism.
2. Act as a link with National Sports Federations affiliated to the International
3. Federations recognized by the International Olympic Committee.
4. Encourage and assist the Government of its country in the enforcement of a Sport Programme for the youth, with a view to developing its character, health and civic sense.
5. Oppose any political or commercial interference and any religious or racial discrimination in Sport.
6. Propagate a programme meant to enlighten the public and the media on Olympic Philosophy.

National Olympic Committees are necessary for the furtherance of the Olympic Movement throughout the world, for it is only through a National Olympic Committee, recognized by the International Olympic Committee, that competitors could be entered in the Olympic Games. It is laid down in the Charter of the International Committee, and I quote: "National Federations shall forward entries to the Organizing Committee for transmission, if approved, to the Organizing Committee". The relevant Entry Forms must be signed by the President or Secretary of the National Olympic Committee.

The question now as to how one goes about forming an Olympic Committee in a country. In order to obtain recognition and thus become a member of the Olympic family, a National Olympic Committee must have at least five affiliated National Federations, three of which must govern a Sport included on the Olympic programme. These National Federations must perforce be affiliated to the relevant International Bodies.

Each National Olympic Committee has to organize and control the participation of its Team to the Olympic Games, including making provisions for its outfitting, transport, lodging, insurance and medical supervision. The National Olympic Committee is also fully responsible for the conduct of its delegation.