The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) welcomed Dr Christiane Schenderlein, Germany’s newly appointed State Minister for Sport and Volunteering, to its IPC Campus in Bonn on Monday (1 September). Her visit marks a milestone in the strong relationship between the IPC and the German government, and highlighted the country’s commitment to sport, inclusion, and accessibility.
Dr Schenderlein toured the IPC Campus, which officially opened on 24 June 2025, and met with IPC Chief Executive Officer Dr Mike Peters PLY, Chief Membership and Impact Officer Kristina Molloy, and members of Team IPC. During her visit, she gained firsthand insight into the history of the Paralympic Movement and the IPC’s global work to advance inclusion through Para sport.
Situated near Bonn’s historic parliamentary district, the IPC Campus stands as one of Germany’s most accessible office environments, featuring a fully inclusive 170-seat auditorium, 157 ergonomic workstations, tactile guidance systems, and indoor navigation via smartphone app, designed to ensure barrier-free access for all.
The State Minister for Sport’s visit is especially significant as the newly created position within the Federal Chancellery has elevated sport policy to the highest level of political representation in Germany. Dr Schenderlein oversees all sport-related departments that were previously under the Federal Ministry of the Interior. This structural shift reflects the Federal Government’s strategic prioritisation of sport and volunteerism as key pillars of national policy.
Dr Schenderlein said: “My visit to the new IPC Campus has given me deeper insight into the excellent work of the International Paralympic Committee. The history of the Paralympic Movement and sports for people with disabilities is truly remarkable. Paralympic sport has an impact far beyond elite competition. The athletes’ performances inspire all persons with disabilities.
“The Paralympic Games are a catalyst for societal change, inclusion and tangible improvements in the daily lives of many people. This ambition also guides our bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Germany.
“I am delighted that since 1999, this success story has been co-authored in Bonn – by motivated and enthusiastic IPC staff from around the world. It is important for the Federal Government that Germany continues to be the home base of the Paralympic Movement in future. Therefore, I am very pleased that the IPC has decided to remain in Bonn and establish its new campus here.”
Dr Mike Peters PLY, the IPC’s Chief Executive Officer said: “Dr Schenderlein’s visit gave us the opportunity to showcase the IPC’s mission and the values we stand for —accessibility, inclusion, and the transformative power of Para sport. We are especially grateful to the Federal Government of Germany for its long-standing support, which has enabled the IPC to grow and thrive in Bonn. Their commitment reflects a deep and enduring partnership that focuses on shared purpose and real impact.
“Having sport represented at the highest political level in Germany sends a strong message, not just to athletes and organisations, but to society at large that sport matters. It matters for inclusion, for community, and for shaping a better future. We are proud to be part of that vision and look forward to continuing our work with the German government to build a more inclusive world through Para sport.”