Latvia Condemns IPC's Decision to Lift Russia, Belarus Ban for 2026 Winter Paralympics
Latvia's Education and Science Minister Dace Melbarde has condemned the International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) decision to lift the partial suspension of Russia and Belarus, allowing their athletes to compete in the 2026 Winter Paralympics. She described the move as 'immoral, cynical, and unacceptable', and an 'insult to the Ukrainian people'.
The IPC's decision, made on March 4, 2023, follows the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) authorization of Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under a neutral flag at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games. However, it has been met with strong opposition from various countries and sports ministers.
Canada, the United States, and several European countries protested the IPC's decision on February 18. Ukraine's Sports Minister Matviy Bidnyi also slammed the decision, calling it a 'betrayal of conscience and the Olympic values'. Daiga Dadzite, President of the Latvian Paralympic Committee, also opposes the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in international competitions.
In response to the IPC's decision, Latvia has initiated consultations with the Latvian Paralympic Committee and partner countries to explore ways to reverse the ruling. Minister Melbarde has strongly criticized the IPC for its decision, stating that it brings a 'stain of shame' on the international sports community.
