<2> Europeans Plan 2026 Paralympics Opening Ceremony Boycott Over Russia
<3> European States Unite Against Russia’s Return to Paralympics
<4> Several European states are planning to boycott the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympics in a move against the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) decision to reinstate Russia. This decision has sparked widespread outrage among European nations, who feel that Russia’s return to the Paralympics undermines the spirit of the games and the values of inclusivity and fair play.
<5> The IPC’s decision to reinstate Russia was made in response to the country’s appeal against its suspension, which was imposed in 2022 due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, many European nations feel that the IPC’s decision was premature and that Russia has not done enough to address the concerns of the international community.
<6> The boycott of the opening ceremony is seen as a strong statement of disapproval by European nations against the IPC’s decision. It is also a reflection of the deep-seated divisions within the international community over Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
<7> The move has been welcomed by some, who see it as a necessary step to hold Russia