SG/SM/18063

Access to Sport ‘a Fundamental Human Right’, Says Secretary-General in Video Message for Summit of Rio Paralympic Games

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the Inclusion Summit of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, taking place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 15 to 16 September:

Sir Philip Craven, President of the International Paralympic Committee, honourable Mr. Eduardo Paes, Mayor of Rio de Janeiro, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

I am pleased to greet all those participating in the Inclusion Summit.

The United Nations is proud of its partnership with the International Paralympic Committee.

The Paralympic Movement and the United Nations share fundamental values.

We both stand for equality, dignity, inclusion and respect.

Sport has an important role in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The Paralympic Movement has been a key ally in implementing the Convention.

I count on the Rio Paralympic Games to once again inspire the world.

Paralympic athletes are change makers and role models.

You are symbols of courage and aspiration for us all.

Sport is a wonderful catalyst for inclusion.

It helps to transcend barriers and highlight our common humanity.

Access to sport, physical activity and play is a fundamental human right.

Let us work together to make this right a reality for everyone, everywhere.

I wish you a successful conference.

Thank you.

For information media. Not an official record.