The Paralympic Games are the brainchild of Dr Ludwig Guttmann, a German neurologist who fled to the UK during the Second World War. In 1948, he organized sports competitions for disabled war veterans, with the aim of promoting their rehabilitation. This initiative led to the creation of the first Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960, with 400 athletes from 23 countries taking part. Since then, the Games have gone from strength to strength, becoming a global event that attracts thousands of athletes from every continent.

The Paralympic Games are a powerful vector of inclusion and awareness. They show that sport is not just about physical performance, but also about the mind, the heart and the soul. Each Paralympic athlete embodies the human capacity to overcome adversity. For many, disability is not a limitation, but a condition to be transcended in order to reach new heights.

These games are an opportunity to redefine what it means to be an athlete. The performances of Paralympians are often spectacular, rivalling those of Olympians in terms of technique, strength and endurance. The records they set are testament to the rigor and dedication of the athletes, reminding us that willpower is one of the most powerful drivers of success.

The Paralympic Games have a considerable impact on society’s perception of disability. They help to deconstruct prejudice and promote a positive view of disability. The inspiring stories of Paralympic athletes, who have often overcome unimaginable obstacles, act as sources of inspiration for everyone, disabled or not.
In addition, the Paralympic Games are a catalyst for improving accessibility in host cities. They encourage local authorities to build more inclusive infrastructures, not just for athletes, but for all residents with disabilities. This leads to a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can participate fully in community life.

Despite their success, the Paralympic Games face persistent challenges. Unequal media coverage compared to the Olympics remains a reality, as does the lack of sponsorship for many Paralympic athletes. Yet every step forward, no matter how small, brings the Paralympic movement closer to equality with its Olympic counterparts.
But there is still a long way to go before disabled people are fully included in all aspects of society. The Paralympic Games play a crucial role in paving the way, but it is essential that this momentum continues beyond the event.