Історія становлення європейського паралімпійського спорту (ХХ – початок ХХІ ст.)

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to summarize the history of the development of Paralympic sports in European countries, to identify the main problems and prospects for the development of the Paralympic movement. Th e research methodology is based on the principles of historicism, objectivity, impartiality, and social approach, as well as the use of systemic, anthropological, integrated and value-based approaches. Th e general scientifi c (analysis and synthesis), general historical (chronological and historical-comparative) and interdisciplinary research methods (citation, content analysis, interpretative analysis) have been used. Th e scientifi c novelty lies in the fact that the origins of the European Paralympic Sports in the twentieth century are comprehensively analyzed, the participation of athletes with disabilities from European countries is covered, the origins and development of the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games are described, the main directions, problems and prospects for the development of the European Paralympic Movement are identifi ed. Conclusion. Th e Paralympic movement today is an important component of international sport, a key factor in ensuring the social adaptation of people with disabilities in society, maintaining the confi dence and faith of people with disabilities in their capabilities. In fact, there are no known and popular sports that do not involve athletes with disabilities. Th e number of Paralympic disciplines is steadily expanding. Paralympic sports contribute to optimizing the physical, mental, and moral condition of people with disabilities. With the development of the national system of physical education and sports, the need for further broad and comprehensive involvement of people with disabilities in active exercise should be broadened and given priority in the processes of socialization of people with disabilities. Th e creation of equal conditions for people with disabilities in terms of their involvement in physical education and sports is the main achievement of developed European countries. Th is experience of European traditions of Paralympic sports is very valuable for Ukraine as well.