Iran has been recognized as the top nation in the world for developing women’s Para sports! The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has awarded the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Iran the 2025 International Women’s Day Recognition Award for its remarkable efforts in empowering female Para athletes.
A Legacy of Excellence and Growth
Since its founding in 2000, NPC Iran has made women’s participation in Para sports a strategic priority. By focusing on competition opportunities, leadership roles, and educational programs, Iran has witnessed a massive increase in female athletes competing on the world stage.
✨ From Barcelona 1992 to Paris 2024:
- Iranian women first participated in the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics with four table tennis players.
- In Paris 2024, 12 Iranian female athletes competed in five sports, winning seven medals – a 33.3% increase in participation!
✨ A Historic Rise in the Asian Para Games:
- At the 2010 Guangzhou Games, 34 female athletes competed in eight sports, earning 17 medals.
- In Hangzhou 2022, 82 female athletes across 13 sports secured 40 medals – a 42% increase in women’s participation.
inspiring Champions & Role Models
Iran is home to legendary female Para athletes who have paved the way for future generations:
- 🏹 Zahra Nemati – The first Iranian woman to win Paralympic gold (London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020) and an inspirational figure worldwide.
- 🎯 Sareh Javanmardi – A four-time Paralympic gold medalist, dominating Para shooting competitions.
- ⛷ Elaheh Gholi Fallah – Iran’s first female cross-country Para skier to qualify for the Winter Paralympics.
A Commitment to Equality & Leadership
Beyond sports, NPC Iran is a leader in gender inclusivity:
- ✔️ 40% of its executive board and committees are women, including two athlete representatives.
- ✔️ The organization has a female Vice President, ensuring that women’s voices are heard at the highest levels.
- ✔️ More than 60,000 Para athletes train under NPC Iran, and one-third are women.
A Global Model for Women’s Para Sports
Iran’s groundbreaking efforts in promoting equality, inclusion, and excellence in women’s Para sports have set a global standard. The IPC’s recognition of Iran’s leadership is a powerful testament to the country’s commitment to empowering female athletes.
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