Beijing, 3 September 2024 (TDI): China is leading the medal table at the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympic Games, reflecting the country’s growing commitment to promoting parasports and safeguarding the rights of people with disabilities.
As of 11 pm on Monday, the Chinese delegation had won 38 gold, 28 silver, and 13 bronze medals, securing the top position in both the gold and overall medal tally at the Games.
Chinese athletes have also set several new world records, inspiring many on social media.
“The Paralympic Games have played a vital role in raising awareness and support for parasports in society,” said Luo Le, a sports scholar from the Beijing University of Chemical Technology.
Parasports serve as an essential component of efforts to support people with disabilities, reflecting broader economic and social progress.
China’s White Paper in Parasports
In 2022, China issued its first white paper on parasports, detailing the participation of people with disabilities in both public and competitive sports, along with the welfare and support systems available to them.
The paper emphasized that parasports reflect the living standards and human rights conditions of the 85 million people with disabilities in China.
The country ensures that people with disabilities enjoy rights across economic, political, social, and cultural fields, creating a foundation for their full participation in sports and social life.
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Looking ahead, China is expected to enhance its support for parasports by increasing financial investment, improving training facilities, creating more career opportunities, and promoting sports programs for people with disabilities, Luo suggested.
In addition, China enacted a new law in 2023 to create a barrier-free living environment for persons with disabilities, ensuring public venues are more accessible.
The law includes provisions for constructing accessible facilities, improving information exchange and social services, and setting up measures for oversight and accountability.
