In a powerful demonstration of unity, diversity, and athlete empowerment, over 70 athlete representatives from more than 50 countries convened for the fourth edition of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Athletes’ Forum, held from 24 to 26 June 2025 in Bonn and Duisburg, Germany. This landmark gathering is shaping the next phase of the global Paralympic Movement, with a strong focus on governance, athlete education, representation, and digital visibility.
The forum included athlete leaders from National Paralympic Committees (NPCs), International Federations (IFs), Regional Organizations, International Organizations of Sport for the Disabled, and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)—making it one of the most inclusive and representative events in the Paralympic world this year.
A New Era in Paralympic Governance and Inclusion
The event opened with addresses from Vladyslava Kravchenko, IPC Athletes’ Council Chairperson, and Andrew Parsons, IPC President. Both emphasized the growing influence of athletes in shaping the future of global para sport.
The highlight of the first day was the inauguration of IPC’s new headquarters in Bonn, attended by German federal, state, and local dignitaries, IPC Governing Board members, and global para athletes. The move marks a fresh chapter for the IPC in institutionalizing athlete-centric policies.
“All the athletes were very happy to be part of the celebration and that the IPC has a new home,” said Juan Diego Blas, a Guatemalan Para archer. “The Forum was excellent.”
Day Two: Education, Digital Media, and Anti-Doping
The second day emphasized athlete education with key sessions on:
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2025 IPC Athlete Classification Code
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Anti-doping regulations and compliance
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Athlete responsibilities in and out of competition
A standout moment was a social media workshop led by TikTok, offering para athletes tools to build their brand and connect authentically with fans.
“The TikTok session was my favourite,” said Thomas Borg, a Para athlete from Malta. “It clarified how to structure content for wider engagement. My goal now is to catch up to the @Paralympics TikTok channel.”
This digital focus is part of IPC’s broader strategy to elevate the visibility of Para sports globally by empowering athletes as content creators and advocates.
Day Three: Representation, Mental Health, and LA28 Insights
The final day saw deep conversations on:
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Athlete well-being
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Representation at global sports forums
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Pathways to leadership roles for Para athletes
Breakout sessions enabled participants to share personal experiences and policy suggestions for future Games. Athletes also had the opportunity to speak directly with Reynold Hoover and John Harper of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee, offering first-hand input into how athlete experiences can be improved at the next Summer Paralympics.
IPC also introduced its impact and development initiatives, including new grant opportunities and leadership training programs.
Amplifying Voices from the Global South
Through its Solidarity Programme, the IPC provided support to 21 athlete representatives from low-resourced National Paralympic Committees—particularly from Africa and Latin America.
“It was very emotional for me to be here,” said Yaimillie Marie Diaz Colon of Puerto Rico. “This forum means new opportunities for youth back home. I’m bringing these lessons to inspire growth in my country.”
Leadership Reactions: Athletes at the Heart of Policy
IPC President Andrew Parsons reinforced the athlete-first philosophy:
“Athlete input is central to everything we do. Sport is transformational—it breaks down barriers and unites cultures.”
Chairperson Vladyslava Kravchenko echoed the sentiment:
“Seeing so many athlete leaders together, especially from underrepresented regions, shows our strength as a community. This is just the beginning.”
Driving a More Inclusive Paralympic Movement
The 2025 IPC Athletes’ Forum served as more than just a conference—it was a global milestone for the Paralympic Movement, grounded in athlete voices, regional equity, and digital evolution. With stronger governance, broader inclusion, and new tools for advocacy, the road to LA28 and beyond looks more athlete-driven than ever.
