Sport as the realisation of a life path

Throughout history, the Paralympics have seen many changes, from the first edition in 1960 to when they expanded to other countries and included more and more categories, until the organisational merger with the Olympics, with which they began to share the same years, the same cities and the same facilities.

Today, the world has changed again and I think we need to aim for a new big breakthrough for the future.

I envision one big, grand, opening ceremony that allows all Olympic and Paralympic athletes, all our athletes, to parade together.

Beyond the organisational structures of the Committees, beyond the rigid ceremonial rules, beyond everything there are the People, the Athletes, and I am deeply convinced that a fairer, more equitable and more innovative vision is needed. With equal dignity, equal opportunities and pay, even in the economic recognition linked to medals.

This is a powerful message that could really make a difference also on a cultural level and thus also influence the political challenges on inclusion, autonomy and the right of all to full participation in the civil, social and political life of our countries. I have stated this several times, and in different contexts, and I also spoke about it during the High-Level Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

A breakthrough is needed.

This is demonstrated even more by the events of these days, at the end of the Olympics war breaks out in the Middle East and defections from the various countries begin, many can no longer leave, others prefer not to, understandable, but many of the athletes now remain orphans of their institutional supporters, orphans of fans and friends who should have been at their side.

And so we have witnessed an incredible and very well attended ceremony for the opening of the Olympics, in San Siro, and now we will be in Verona, in an extraordinary setting, which will dictate a strong signal for future challenges also on accessibility, but with many fewer people, many athletes already involved in the competitions and unable to be present, all obviously shrouded by an international, complex and delicate scenario that takes over everything.

But the Paralympics are a great goal for athletes, an extraordinary opportunity for visibility and growth, an experience not just of sport but of life. One feels proud, full of energy and grateful to one's country for being there to compete. Similarly, for the host country it is a great responsibility, an opportunity and a test of organisation, hosting capacity, a major challenge.

This is Italia's opportunity and it is up to us to give meaning to this frame now, not only sporting, but of life and humanity. Being there is important, beyond any tension, being there for the athletes, for the technicians and coaches, for the families, for the volunteers, being there is a duty and a manifestation of support and closeness that cannot be renounced.

I do not see sport only as competitive competition, but for many people with a disability it is also the realisation of a life path.

More autonomy, relationships and participation, with hard work, with courage and a lot of determination. But we will be there!

Minister for Disabilities