Introduction to the Decision
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has lifted all sanctions against Russia and Belarus. Both countries had been under sanctions since 2022, following Ukraine’s invasion, in which Belarusian territory was involved in the march on Kyiv.
The IPC’s Decision
In its general assembly in Seoul, the IPC voted against a full suspension of Russia (111-55, 11 abstentions), followed by a vote against a partial suspension (91-77, 8). The same decisions were then applied to Belarus, lifting its partial suspension as well.
Implications of the Decision
"This decision means that NPC Belarus and NPC Russia now receive their full rights and privileges for IPC membership in accordance with the IPC constitution," according to an IPC declaration. The IPC will work with the two parties to take practical precautions as soon as possible. This could mean that Russian and Belarusian athletes could compete in the Milan Cortina Winter Paralympics under their own flags next year, despite the ongoing war.
Conditions for Athlete Participation
However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will maintain its strict entry regulations for athletes from both countries. They may compete as neutrals but cannot participate in team sports or display national symbols.
Reaction from Ukraine
Ukraine’s Sports Minister, Matviy Bidnyi, condemned the decision, stating that those who voted in favor had revealed "their conscience and the Olympic values." Ukraine is calling on European partners hosting upcoming Paralympic Games not to allow the flag of the "attacker state" in free and democratic spaces during the aggression war. The decision on whether Ukraine will participate will be made at a later date.
Final Decisions by Associations
The Russian and Belarusian National Paralympic Committees were partially suspended in 2022 after the invasion of Ukraine. Their athletes could only compete as neutrals after undergoing a strict review process at the Paralympic Games in Paris last year. It remains unclear whether athletes from both countries will compete in Milan Cortina, as the final decision rests with the sports associations that continue to impose sanctions.
