The “Equipped for equity” campaign during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games advocates for concerted global action to improve access to these essential health products.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) join forces to highlight the transformative impact of assistive technology on sports during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The "Equipped for equity" campaign emphasises the crucial role of assistive technology for Paralympic athletes to advocate for concerted global action to improve access to these essential health products.

Examples of assistive technology used by Paralympians include running blades, wheelchairs, and release braces in archery. The campaign features personal stories from athletes who rely on assistive technology for sport and in daily life and highlight national successes in advancing access to these critical health products.

“The Paralympics show us what is possible, and the important role that assistive technology plays for these extraordinary athletes,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “But around the world, many people still do not have access to crucial assistive technology, due to its high cost and low availability. We call on governments, donors, and civil society to prioritise these neglected but critical products, by integrating them in primary care programmes as part of their journey towards universal health coverage.”

Andrew Parsons, President, IPC noted, “The Paralympic Games are one of the only global events that put persons with disabilities front and centre, and in many events highlight how assistive technology can support athletes to compete at the highest level. These technologies allow them to redefine what is possible in sports and inspire millions around the world.”

“While we get ready to celebrate incredible athletic success, it is critical to remember that access to assistive technology remains a significant concern. We must advocate for more affordable and accessible solutions globally, ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they live, has the opportunity to lead 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 in need of assistive technology across the world. For instance, only 5-35 per cent of the 80 million people who need a wheelchair have access to one, depending on where they live, and only 10 per cent of the global demand for hearing aids is currently met. Without access to assistive technology, persons 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 highlights initiatives like Zimbabwe’s recent tax exemption on assistive technology and the pre-Paralympic tax reductions on assistive technology for sports in France and Japan. The campaign calls on countries to implement similar initiatives and integrate assistive technology into primary healthcare and universal health coverage.

Read More: Continued need to improve AI tools in healthcare: Study