The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has had a tremendous positive impact by bringing together Para athletes from around the world in celebration and competitive participation in sports. In doing so it has helped to change long-held biases towards people with an impairment and made the Paralympic Games a symbol of social inclusion and awareness.

Founded in 1989, the IPC has transformed itself from a small disability sports organisation into one of the world’s most widely respected sport organisations, making the Paralympic Games comparable to the Olympic Games. It is able to feature the world’s best Para athletes, who have gone on to become global heroes.

The IPC and the Paralympic Movement have inspired and offered hope to so many, making what was once perceived as impossible “possible”, and in so doing generated enormous positive energy. Over the years, the Paralympic Games have dissolved barriers, making for a more inclusive society through achievement and excellence in sports, and celebrating the triumph of the human spirit over adversity and challenges.