IPC strengthens support for human rights agenda

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has strengthened its commitment to human rights by accepting an invitation to join the Advisory Council of the Centre for Sport and Human Rights.

The Centre works towards a vision of a world of sport that fully respects human rights by sharing knowledge, building capacity and strengthening the accountability of all actors through collective action and promotion of the Sporting Chance Principles.

The IPC’s acceptance was formally received at a meeting held at the United Nations’ Palace of Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, on 1 October.

IPC President Andrew Parsons and UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) Director of the Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division Peggy Hicks were in attendance.

Parsons said: “Human rights are at the forefront of the International Paralympic Committee’s mission. Through our work across the world we aim to protect and promote the rights of people with impairment as well as their fundamental freedoms in line with the UN Convention on Rights for People with Disabilities.

“The Paralympic Movement has a unique unifying power, inspiring social change and bringing people from different backgrounds together in a celebration of diversity.

“Combining forces with the Centre for Sports and Human Rights by joining their Advisory Council is another important step towards our ultimate goal of making for more inclusive societies through Para sports.”

John Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Human Rights and Business and Acting Chief Executive Officer for the Centre for Sport and Human Rights, said:

“All of us involved in the Centre for Sport and Human Rights are delighted to welcome the International Paralympic Committee to the Centre's Advisory Council.

“The Advisory Council is made up of leading sports bodies, governments, sponsor companies and broadcasters, trade unions and other civil society actors all committed to the Centre's mission.

“The Advisory Council sets the agenda for the Centre's emerging work and we are fortunate to have the IPC joining our growing coalition of partners dedicated to ensuring respect for the human rights of all people throughout the world of sport.”