The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) has been in force in Switzerland since May 2014. Its ratification is a clear commitment to remove barriers for people with disabilities, protect them from discrimination, and actively promote their inclusion and equality in society.
Inclusion at Special Olympics Switzerland
Special Olympics Switzerland implements the UN CRPD’s demand in the field of sport with the Unified Program and promotes the development of adapted sports and exercise programs for people with disabilities. The foundation works hand in hand with sports clubs, sporting events, and sports federations, so that people with disabilities can participate in existing structures.
Definition of Inclusion
Inclusion means that a society adapts and becomes flexible to create a place for all people within the community, taking into account the needs and differences of all people. Inclusion requires changing society and its systems so that all people naturally belong. This requires a new fundamental understanding that recognizes diversity and heterogeneity as normal.1
Further Information
1 Definition based on Aichele, 2008, p. 12;
Bielefeldt, 2009, p. 11; Curdt, 2012