Blog #8: IPC Values During Times of Conflict

 IPC Values During Times of Conflict

Was the Russia and Belarus Paralympic ban a Fair Decision?

The International Paralympic Committee vows to remain politically neutral as stated within the IPC constitution. Following the events of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the IPC decided to suspend Russia and Belarus from participating in the Paralympics.  However, Para athletes from these countries were permitted to participate under a neutral flag without a team. This decision was made so the athletes could still compete in the Paralympic games to align with IPC values such as inclusivity, equality, and political neutrality. 

An IPC article shared an official statement made by the IPC president, Andrew Parsons, who described the situation perfectly. 

Parsons emphasized, “It is vital we show to world leaders through our sport that we can unite as human beings and that our true power is found when promoting peace, understanding, and inclusion. This is at the core of what the Paralympic Movement does and what it stands for. We should not lose sight of this now, no matter what the circumstances.”

Did the IPC Make the Right Decision?

Despite the complex political events during times of war, the IPC continues to put Para athletes first. Although disagreements and opposing viewpoints are inevitable, the IPC made the right decision to continue supporting their athletes the best they could. The IPC realizes that the athletes are not the cause of war, but simply civilians who dedicate years of training for the Paralympics. 

Should Russian and Belarus NPCs be Permanently Banned from IOC/IPC Events?

Currently, Russian and Belarus NPCs will have the opportunity to appeal their suspensions this year if International Paralympic Committee members vote in their favor. The updated IPC constitution provided in this article shares additional key details. 

Some obligations of the IPC constitution include, "be neutral and impartial in matters of politics, the spirit of fair play prevails, the safety and health of the athletes are protected, and fundamental ethical principles are upheld."

By staying true to the IPC constitution, the Russian and Belarus NPCs should be allowed to appeal and compete in the Paralympic Games. 

Should Disabled Sporting Events be Heald in Russia and Belarus?

During times of war in affected countries, the safety and well-being of athletes should be upheld over anything. Just as the National Paralympic Committees have the chance to appeal bans, their countries should have the opportunity to hold sports events when peace is made. However, as war is ongoing, events should not be held per the IPC constitution. 

An NBC Sports article shares an additional statement by the IPC president, “I want us to live in a world where sport unites the world in peaceful competition, enabling athletes to compete against their rivals to the best of their abilities in a safe and secure environment." 

Should Russian and Belarus Para Athletes Remain Eligible?

Just as Russian and Belarus NPCs are allowed to appeal their suspensions from the Paralympics, athletes should not be held accountable for something outside their control. One of the many values the IPC stands for is peace and acceptance towards competing athletes. Andrew Parsons further explains that the Paralympics should be about the "sport and the performances of Para athletes." 

References:

OlympicTalk. (2022, November 17). IPC bans Russia, Belarus paralympic committees. NBC Sports. https://www.nbcsports.com/olympics/news/russia-paralympic-committee-banned-ipc

International Paralympic Committee. (2022, March 2). IPC makes decisions regarding RPC and NPC Belarus. https://www.paralympic.org/press-release/ipc-makes-decisions-regarding-rpc-and-npc-belarus?fbclid=IwAR3zAi5KVUQl0OlWlEkQAczwnTfDUGGpTWr90MeZBaq3wjc1c4RfbXtkjSo

International Paralympic Committee. (2023, September 29). IPC General Assembly partially suspends NPC Russia and NPC Belarus. https://www.paralympic.org/news/ipc-general-assembly-partially-suspends-npc-russia-and-npc-belarus