Canadian Paralympic Committee – Ottawa, January 27, 2019 – The International Paralympic Committee announced today it is moving the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships out of Kuching, Malaysia following the Malaysian government’s assertion that no Israeli swimmers would be allowed entry into the country to participate.

The world championships were set to be held July 29 to August 4, and the IPC will now look for a new host.  

Statement from Marc-André Fabien, president, Canadian Paralympic Committee:

“The Canadian Paralympic Committee applauds the International Paralympic Committee for taking the appropriate action and moving this year’s World Para Swimming Championships. Inclusion is one of our key values, and we believe all athletes who qualify should be allowed to compete at a sporting event. Political reasons should not play a part in whether an athlete can participate and any form of discrimination should not be tolerated. All athletes deserve to compete in a safe and inclusive environment.”

About the Canadian Paralympic Committee: Paralympic.ca

Media Contact:
Nicole Watts
Manager, Public Relations
Canadian Paralympic Committee
nwatts@paralympic.ca / 613-569-4333 x262