Welfare contributes to an inclusive society

Posted by on Thursday, September 15, 2016 · Leave a Comment 

The Paralympics are more than just a sporting event. The Games are also important in the work of creating a more inclusive society in which everyone can participate. The Swedish model is a prerequisite for this, says Ms Regnér ( first from left). Foto: Joanna Abrahamsson//Government Offices

The Paralympics are more than just a sporting event. The Games are also important in the work of creating a more inclusive society in which everyone can participate. The Swedish model is a prerequisite for this, says Ms Regnér ( first from left).
Foto: Joanna Abrahamsson//Government Offices

“Welfare makes it possible for people with disabilities to be included in society,” said Åsa Regnér, the minister with responsibility for disability issues, as she represented the Swedish Government at the Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro on 7–9 September.   

The 2016 Paralympics are being held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 7–18 September 2016. These are officially the 15th Summer Paralympic Games and this is the first time that South America is hosting the event.

Highlighting the importance of an inclusive society

Ms Regnér travelled to Rio de Janeiro to call attention to the Paralympics sports and the Swedish team. Highlighting the importance of an inclusive society, in which everyone can participate in sport for example, was also important.

In addition to attending the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games, Ms Regnér met the Swedish team and cheered the Swedes on as they competed. Ms Regnér, who speaks Portuguese, also did a number of interviews with the Brazilian media.
“It is very exciting to follow the Swedish team here in Rio, and naturally I am hoping for some blue and yellow medals. The Paralympics are more than just a sporting event. The Games are also important in the work of creating a more inclusive society in which everyone can participate. The Swedish model is a prerequisite for this,” said Ms Regnér.

International Week of Accessibility and Culture

In addition to attending the sporting events, Ms Regnér also visited the organisation Promundo, which works with men’s role in gender equality, and an adoption centre, and attended the official inauguration of the International Week of Accessibility and Culture.

“Disability policy is a question of human rights. Girls, boys, women and men with disabilities must be able to enjoy their human rights. Gender equality and the child perspective should be in focus. Girls, boys, women and men with disabilities should have the same ability and opportunity to shape their own lives,” said Ms Regnér at the inauguration of the International Week of Accessibility and Culture.
Swedish Government

Filed under News, Politics, Sport · Tagged with