Paralympic Games & The Invasion

A little over a week ago, Russia invaded Ukraine. As this invasion has continued, Belarus has decided to side with Russia. The timing of this devastating tragedy happens to fall right before the 2022 Paralympic Winter Games, which are to take place in Beijing. Now, the athletes of Russia and Belarus are being penalized by the results of their leaders. 

Considering everything that is taking place, I feel that it is a good decision by the International Paralympic Committee to not hold any events in either Russia or Belarus. Along with this, I feel that it is a good decision to have the participants and their coaches enter as neutrals. Additionally, the athletes will not be able to associate themselves with their countries and will be represented by the Paralympic flag. Their uniforms must cover any visible representation of their country, and any medals won will be given to the athletes and will not be counted toward their countries. 

The actions of these two countries are something that cannot go unnoticed or unaddressed. Being that everyone in the International Paralympic Committee was in agreement to make these changes, I feel that they made the right decision to remove Russia and Belarus' titles from the games. However, I feel that it is a little too soon to remove Russia and Belarus NPCs from participating in International Paralympic Committees and International Olympic Committees events. Once these types of decisions are made, it is typically never revoked or revisited. I understand that the invasions were not decided on by the athletes, therefore they should not be punished. They have trained for countless hours to become Paralympic athletes, and they deserve to compete and be viewed as any other individual in the games. With that being said, these athletes would rather compete individually and be represented by the Paralympics, than to not compete at all. I feel that disabled and able-bodied sports should refrain from holding any events in Belarus or Russia for the near future, and if athletes are to compete outside of their country, it should be under a neutral or individual entry. The committee has decided on what they feel will best represent the Paralympic Games, and to stand with Ukraine. During these difficult times, hopefully when the athletes are being scored, they will not be viewed for the faults of their leaders and will be judged on their physical performance.

Pictures:

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