The Estonian Paralympic Committee (EPK) has firmly condemned the participation of Russian and Belarusian para-athletes in the upcoming Winter Paralympics in Milan Cortina, as announced by the International Ski Federation (FIS) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). The IPC confirmed that six Russian and four Belarusian athletes will compete at the event, and they will be allowed to participate under their country's flags. This decision comes at a time when military actions against Ukraine are still ongoing, raising significant concerns from many sports organizations around the world.

In its statement, the EPK emphasized the importance of transparency, consistency, and adherence to the core values of fair play, safety, and the integrity of the Paralympic movement in the decisions made by international sports organizations. The committee stressed that permitting athletes from aggressor nations, particularly under their national symbols, jeopardizes the reputation of the Paralympic movement and undermines trust in its governance and values. This statement reflects a growing sentiment among nations and sports entities regarding the inappropriateness of allowing participants from countries involved in military conflicts to compete in international events.

As discussions about the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes continue in the sports community, the EPK's stance signifies a broader push for ethical considerations in sports. Their condemnation not only highlights the complexities of international sports relations during conflicts but also suggests potential repercussions for the future inclusivity of athletes from politically sensitive regions. The ongoing debate may affect decision-making processes in upcoming sports competitions, especially as the global community seeks to uphold principles of justice and responsibility in athletic representation.