China's Zhu Zhenzhen (L) hugs Japan's Kamiji Yui after their wheelchair tennis final at the 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 26, 2023. /CFP
Regarded as a defining event epitomizing the wider Paralympic movement, the Hangzhou Asian Para Games functioned as both a showcase for the capacities of people with disabilities, and stimulated rights for this community through guarantees of integration, parity in chances, and access to infrastructure in society.
The Chinese organizers had a central goal in mind - to bring about a profound change in the way non-disabled individuals and society as a whole perceives people with disabilities in the long run. While the extent to which Hangzhou has fulfilled its promises for the disabled community may be subject to discussion, many of those involved in the organization of the Games have lauded them as a tremendous success.
"The Hangzhou Asian Para Games not only serve as a stage where disabled athletes can fulfill their dreams and shine, but also as a platform to showcase the achievements in the development of disability rights in contemporary China," said Wang Hongwei, deputy director of the department of publicity and culture with the China Disabled Persons' Federation during a press conference on Thursday.
China's Tian Yajuan (L) during the women's 800m-T54 final at the 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 26, 2023. /CFP
"The planning and execution of the Games have played a significant role in driving the advancement of disability rights in our nation. The overall health and well-being of individuals with disabilities have witnessed notable improvements, while the goals of equality, inclusivity, and shared opportunities for disabled individuals have been realized," he added.
Recent statistics show that China has established 40 national-level training centers for disabled athletes. These centers not only provide support and services for disabled sports competitions, training, activities, education, and research, but also play an important role in promoting the daily physical activities of disabled individuals.
"We view the Hangzhou Asian Para Games as a favorable opportunity to drive the advancement of the disabled community," added Wang. "Our focus lies in safeguarding equal rights for disabled individuals, enhancing their overall well-being, empowering them to reach their full potential, and facilitating the comprehensive development of the disabled sector. Together, we will strive to create a happier and better life for disabled individuals."
China and Thailand compete during the women's epee fencing team final at the 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 26, 2023. /CFP
Yong Zhijun, the deputy secretary-general of the Chinese delegation for the Games, echoed this sentiment. "The Hangzhou Asian Para Games represents a grand occasion for cultural exchange, where the accomplishments and mutual learning in disabled sports within the Asian region are showcased," he stated. "It will undoubtedly play a crucial part in promoting the development of disabled sports in our country and contributing to the overall progress of our society."
Moreover, there has been widespread attention drawn to cutting-edge assistive devices such as intelligent prosthetic hands, bionic feet, and intelligent guide dogs for the visually impaired. These high-tech assistive devices have captured widespread interest and are poised to enter the market, bringing benefits to a larger community of disabled individuals.
Yang Yingying, president of Hangzhou Disabled Persons Federation, noted the dedicated support of the Hangzhou Municipal Government in nurturing high-tech assistive device enterprises, offering financial assistance, and implementing supportive policies. "We are actively exploring the inclusion of these advanced assistive devices in procurement catalogs, ensuring prompt access for our disabled brothers and sisters in need," she further explained.