International Paralympic Committee Lifts Partial Suspensions on Russia and Belarus
The International Paralympic Committee has lifted partial suspensions on Russia and Belarus, allowing both countries to regain membership rights following a vote at the IPC general assembly.
IPC General Assembly Decision
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) lifted the partial suspensions on Russia and Belarus following a vote at its general assembly. The decision restores the membership rights of both countries, which had previously faced restrictions due to the invasion of Ukraine. The vote took place in Munich, where IPC officials and delegates from member nations convened to address the ongoing sanctions.
IPC President Andrew Parsons presided over the assembly, where the motion to lift the partial bans was presented and subsequently approved. The partial suspensions had limited the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in IPC events, impacting their ability to compete internationally under their national flags.
International Reactions and Consequences
Ukraine reacted with outrage to the IPC’s decision, according to statements from Ukrainian officials reported by international media. The Ukrainian delegation expressed strong opposition, citing ongoing concerns related to the invasion and its impact on the Paralympic movement. The lifting of sanctions now clears the path for Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in the 2026 Paralympic Games, a move that has drawn criticism from several national committees.
The IPC’s decision marks a significant shift in its approach to the membership status of Russia and Belarus. The original suspensions were imposed as a direct response to the invasion of Ukraine, with the intent to uphold the values of the Paralympic movement. With the partial bans now lifted, both countries are expected to resume full participation in IPC activities, including governance and competition rights.