The development of para-sport is one of CISM's main concerns. Specifically, CISM pursues the goal of promoting the spread of para-sport events and enabling soldiers with physical disabilities to take part in better and more dignified sporting competitions. The Swiss CISM delegation is putting this goal into practice by signing an inclusion partnership agreement with PluSport in December with a view to the 2025 Military World Winter Games.
As the Swiss umbrella organization that supports people with disabilities from grassroots to elite sport, PluSport is the ideal partner for the inclusive organization of the Military World Winter Games. Their expertise and support contribute to the successful implementation of the project in terms of integration and inclusion.
The Swiss Armed Forces support associations and their athletes through various funding vehicles. And since 2021, para-athletes have also benefited from this valuable offer. The promotion of Swiss competitive sport by the Armed Forces is a clear signal and commitment to inclusion and disabled sport. During the Winter World Military Games, this commitment is to be carried out into the world and show other countries that the Armed Forces are not only a valuable source of support for regular athletes, but also for para-athletes.
Important foundations have already been laid in terms of accessibility. In collaboration with PluSport and with the support of two wheelchair athletes, all competition-relevant locations were checked for accessibility. Based on their list of requirements, the necessary conversions were commissioned and are now to be implemented by the end of 2024.
Through joint activities, expert exchange and mutual support, the aim is to promote each other's vision and ensure that the competitions are held smoothly and barrier-free for the delegations with disabilities and serve as a pioneering example for all future CISM competitions.