The State and Prospects of Paralympic Sport in Kazakhstan

Abstract

This study examines the current state and future prospects of Paralympic sport in the Republic of Kazakhstan, including a retrospective look at its development both nationally and internationally. The paper briefly presents the history of the Paralympic Games, the gradual inclusion of various sports, the expansion of participating countries, and the rapid growth in the number of Paralympic athletes. Against this backdrop, the study highlights Kazakhstan's sporting events and achievements, the state of infrastructure, and support programs for Paralympic sport. In particular, the research demonstrates the importance and significant potential of the Paralympic movement for society and the state in several areas of life – sports, medical, social, and humanitarian. In other words, the development of Paralympic sport contributes to the promotion of health and the active engagement of people with disabilities in a fulfilling life, proudly advancing domestic Paralympian’s to the international level, and comprehensively consolidating social groups within society. Nevertheless, to maintain and constantly improve the existing indicators, it is necessary to enhance the financial, infrastructural, organizational, and methodological conditions of Paralympic sport, especially in supporting and developing youth programs. In conclusion, the paper provides recommendations for the development of Paralympic sport in Kazakhstan, support for athletes with disabilities, and improvement of conditions for the design and implementation of youth programs.