The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) takes the initiative to endorse the values enshrined in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, from the civil society perspective.

In today's fragile geopolitical landscape, the EESC is symbolically raising the idea of truce during the celebration of the games, reflecting the three original values of excellence, respect and friendship. Organised civil society has advocated for the spirit of building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practiced without discrimination of any kind, with a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play.

Oliver Röpke, EESC President, said: 'The Games embody the spirit of unity and peace, transcending borders and bringing people together from all walks of life. By advocating these values, we hope to inspire a global movement towards peace and solidarity.'

Laurenţiu Plosceanu, EESC Vice-President for Communication, said: 'With this initiative we would like to endorse the sport values which remain timeless. The values we are defending have the power to change the world and unite people and countries.'

Krzysztof Pater, EESC Vice-President for Budget, said: 'The Paris Games show that everyone has the right to be part of this great sports celebration without discrimination. Persons with disabilities are a powerful example to audiences across the world, highlighting the values of courage, determination and equality.'

Dimitris Dimitriadis, former EESC President and President of the EESC's External Relations section, commented: 'The truce, or "Ekecheiria" in the original Greek, now appears more timely than ever. We need to revive and put into practice the idea of the truce as hope to inspire humanity and promote peace and dialogue.'

Giulia Barbucci, former EESC Vice-President for Budget and EESC member, said: 'For the first time in history, there will be equal participation between men and women in the Paris Games. But we must remember that parity in participation is not equality and there is still a lot to do on this objective in sport.'

Isabel Caño Aguilar, former EESC Vice-President for Communication and EESC member, said: 'My wish at the Paris Games is for all categories of disability to be fairly represented, with the right to compete and be protected, especially including people with intellectual disabilities!' (mt)