Why are critics of China lobbying for a boycott of this summer’s Olympics?

Critics of China are calling for a boycott of the Olympics for several different reasons; the most noted is their Human Rights issues. China has a reputation for atrocities committed against its citizens, of which the most widely known is the massacre of the Tibetans decades ago. And of course there is Tiananmen Square. Of course China has other issues that are facing boycott, such as their record against civil and political rights for their citizens. 

I do wonder why China was picked to host the Olympics, I am not sure if there was hope on the part of the Officials that this might pave the way for a ‘healthier China’ or not. I would think that Olympic officials would be aware of the world situation, and aware that they may face protest. However, I am not sure that I feel the U.S. boycotting the Olympics is the right thing. While I do not think that China should have been picked, nor am I happy with their policies, unfortunately the games are already planned. And there are thousands of athletes that have worked years for this opportunity. This is their job, their chance to win a medal, and get recognition for all their hard work. Many of these people have the potential to have lifelong careers after going to the Olympics. This is their shot, and they will not get another one for four more years. Imagine working as hard as they do, honing a skill, for four long years (at bare minimum, most for longer) and at the defining moment of your career it is taken away because your country decides to boycott the games. It was not their decision to go to China, so I am not sure the athletes should be punished for it.