Promoting inclusion and combating discrimination against persons with disabilities in sport are essential aims for both the Council of Europe (CoE) and the European Union (EU). The two institutions are pursuing their co-operation in the field of sport in the framework of the joint project “Sport For All”.
Persons with disabilities continue to face disproportionate discrimination, exclusion, and limited access to sport. These challenges arise from physical, social, and systemic obstacles, as well as online discrimination, including hate speech and cyberbullying, which further discourage participation. Such barriers are interconnected and reinforce one another, underscoring the urgent need for improved anti-discrimination practices among sports organisations and beyond.
Sport has long been a catalyst for change, fostering inclusion and transforming societal attitudes; it also provides numerous benefits, from enhancing physical and mental health to strengthening social connections. Equal access to sport for all, the importance of which was highlighted by the recent Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, is a cornerstone of both the Council of Europe’s European Sports Charter and the Olympic Charter.
As stated in the European Sports Charter (article 10): “All human beings have an inalienable right of access to sport in a safe environment […], which is essential for their personal development and instrumental in the exercise of the rights to health, education, culture and participation in the life of the community.”
The Olympic Charter (article 2) places the universality of sport at the heart of its existence “The IOC’s role is […] to encourage and support the development of sport for all.”
Running from March 2025 to August 2026, the Sport For All project will highlight the importance of accessibility, representation, and equal opportunities in sport. By challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusive sports practices, the project will:
- Support grassroots sports clubs in adopting inclusive approaches and building safe and inclusive spaces by preventing discrimination and fostering welcoming sports environments where everyone feels valued and respected;
- Educate the public and sports communities about barriers, discrimination, and best practices for inclusion, by hosting webinars to share expertise and success stories;
- Support sports communities by providing training to sports professionals, grassroots clubs and organisations, and by sharing best practices and educational toolkits on inclusion and anti-discrimination;
- Produce inspiring videos showcasing sportspersons with disabilities to fight discrimination and raise awareness about accessibility and the benefits of inclusive sport, to challenge stereotypes and encourage participation.
Through collaboration with sports organisations, public authorities, and local communities, Sport For All will play a pivotal role in shaping policies and programmes that champion inclusivity. By promoting change at multiple levels, the project aims to create sustainable impact and ensure that sport is a welcoming space for all.
