Matvii Bidnyi, Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine, took part in the presentation of the Joy of Movement study on the rehabilitation of veterans through sports. Veterans and representatives of relevant ministries and NGOs discussed scaling up sports initiatives for the rehabilitation of defenders.
The event also featured a panel discussion titled "Recovery through Physical Activity: Importance and Obstacles", which addressed current challenges and opportunities for introducing sports programmes into the rehabilitation system.
"Today's event demonstrates that a powerful community of people of action is being formed - those who are not only interested in the development of adaptive sports, but also implement projects, share experiences, cooperate and move initiatives forward. The most important thing is to focus on people's needs, look for leaders who can engage veterans and support them in their communities. We believe that veterans should be the driving force behind the development of community sports clubs, as this is the key to a healthy and socially capable society," said Matvii Bidnyi.
The Minister also spoke about the achievements, including the opening of 85 adaptive clubs, and shared plans for their further expansion. He said that work was underway to digitise processes to facilitate access to sports opportunities for veterans. Matvii Bidnyi also emphasised the importance of support from socially responsible businesses and the public, emphasising that veterans can become the basis for the development of community sports clubs across the country.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine continues to work to create conditions to support veterans, using sport as an effective tool for rehabilitation, integration and inspiration for the whole society.