An Israeli delegation to the UN took part in a conference on the rights of people with disabilities at the world body's headquarters in New York on Wednesday. The event was held in cooperation with Germany's mission to the world body. UN missions from around the world and senior world body officials were among those in attendance.
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Germany's UN envoy Antje Leendertse, Deputy Justice Minister Director-General Kobi Matza, and World Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons, the latter of whom delivered recorded remarks, were in attendance, as were representatives of organizations in Israel and Germany that promote the rights of people with disabilities. The cooperative effort by German and Israeli officials sent a strong message to the international community regarding the ability of sports to connect communities and individuals.
One of the Israeli athletes to attend the event was Doron Shaziri, a sharpshooter who won five silver and three bronze Paralympic medals. Shaziri lost his left leg when he stepped on a mine near the Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon while serving in the Israel Defense Forces. Shaziri was joined by Verena Bentele, a German Paralympic skier from Germany who suffers from vision impairment and has medaled multiple times at international competitions.
In a statement, Matza said, "Paralympic sports are the eternal proof that the sky is the limit and we are all equal. I am excited and proud to represent the State of Israel at the UN conference on the rights of people with disabilities."
Erdan said: "We are presenting the extensive endeavors in Israel that exemplify the victory of the spirit over any difficulty reality poses. I am proud that Israel is a world leader in promoting the rights of people with disabilities, and today's event that presents outstanding athletes who overcame tremendous challenges shows another side of Israel's extensive work in the field."
Within the framework of the annual conference, Israel's UN mission has initiated a series of activities and events to highlight Israel's extensive work in the field of promoting the rights of people with disabilities. Among other things, Israel is holding two events aimed at encouraging international cooperation on the issue and to be attended by high-ranking officials with the cooperation of additional countries.
In yet another achievement, an Israeli representative will serve on the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the first time. Odelia Fitoussi's appointment was the result of a diplomatic campaign led by Israel's Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan and the Foreign Ministry.
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