The IPC and WHO are joining forces to highlight the transformative impact of assistive technology on sport during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The "Equipped for equity" campaign emphasizes the critical role of assistive technology for Paralympic athletes and advocates for concerted global action to improve access to these essential health products, according to the IPC.

Throughout the Games, the IPC and WHO will use the Paralympic platform to share messages and information focusing on the importance of assistive technology, how athletes use it, and why universal access is essential. Examples of assistive technology used by Paralympians include: running blades, wheelchairs, and release braces in archery. 

The 'Equipped for equity' campaign will feature personal stories from athletes who rely on assistive technology in sport and in daily life, and highlight national successes in promoting access to these critical health products. "The Paralympics show us what is possible and the crucial role that assistive technology plays for these extraordinary athletes," said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. 

"However, many people around the world still lack access to critical assistive technologies due to their high cost and low availability. We call on governments, donors, and civil society to prioritise these neglected but critical products, by integrating them into primary care programmes as part of their journey towards universal health coverage."

International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons said, "The Paralympic Games is one of the only global events that puts people with disabilities at the centre of attention, and in many events showcase how assistive technology can help athletes to compete at the highest level. These technologies enable them to redefine what is possible in sport and inspire millions of people around the world." 

"As we prepare to celebrate incredible sporting achievements, it is important to remember that access to assistive technology remains a significant issue. We must advocate for more affordable and accessible solutions globally to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live, has the opportunity to live a full life and contribute to society." 

WHO estimates that access to assistive technology remains severely limited in many parts of the world, with more than 2.5 billion people worldwide in need of assistive technology. For example, only 5-35% of the 80 million people who need a wheelchair have access to one, depending on where they live, and only 10% of the global demand for hearing aids is currently met. 

Without access to assistive technology, people with disabilities are denied the right to participate in all aspects of life, and are also more at risk of exclusion, isolation and poverty. 

The 'Equipped for equity' campaign will highlight examples such as Zimbabwe's recent tax exemption on assistive technology and the pre-Paralympic tax reductions on assistive technology for sport in France and Japan. By highlighting these initiatives, the campaign calls on countries to implement similar initiatives and integrate assistive technology into primary health care and universal health coverage. 

Measures to make assistive technology accessible and affordable are essential to enable individuals to participate fully in life and also to promote broader social and economic development. Expanding access to quality assured, safe and affordable assistive technology reduces health and social costs, such as hospitalizations, and promotes a more productive workforce, indirectly stimulating economic growth. 

WHO is also supporting the IPC and the Government of France to ensure a healthy and safe environment for all athletes and spectators at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Joint public health advice, developed with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, has been provided to support travellers attending the Games.