IPC allowed Russian military criminals to participate in competitions: what is the response

The IPC responded to the inquiry regarding the participation of Russian athletes

According to glavcom.ua: The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) responded to the inquiry from 'Glavkom' about the participation of Russian athletes who have committed war crimes during the conflict with Ukraine in its competitions. Earlier, the IPC confirmed that such athletes have the right to participate in events under its auspices.

The editorial team of 'Glavkom' asked: Is there a ban for Russian athletes who have committed war crimes during Russia's illegal war against Ukraine to participate in competitions organized by the IPC? Do they have the same rights as other athletes? Will the IPC conduct an investigation regarding these athletes?

The IPC does not have control over whether a person has committed war crimes; this is the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court. The IPC defines the policy regarding participation in the Paralympic Games or other competitions regulated by it for individuals who have been convicted with a prison sentence and whose term has not fully expired...

It is worth noting that Russian figure skater Alexander Saitin was recognized by the International Skating Union (ISU) as a neutral athlete. She participated in the annual report of Russian leader Vladimir Putin to the Federal Assembly.

Participation of Russian athletes in propaganda events

Another follower of Putin - Russian skier Veronika Stepanova, published photos on Instagram about Saitina's participation in a propaganda event. Saitina can be seen in the video broadcast of the event along with Putin's associates and Russian soldiers who participated in the war with Ukraine. Participation in such events contradicts the recommendations from the International Olympic Committee regarding neutral athletes.

After the inquiry from 'Glavkom', the IPC explained its policy regarding the participation of Russian athletes suspected of war crimes in its competitions. The focus is on defining the competencies and responsibilities of the IPC on this issue.