Disabled Athletes and Sports Justice: Enhancing Access to Inclusive Sports in Indonesia

Abstract

Disabled athletes in Indonesia face significant challenges in accessing competitive and recreational sports opportunities, contributing to broader social inequalities. This paper explores the barriers to inclusion faced by disabled individuals in Indonesia’s sports system, including physical, financial, and attitudinal obstacles. By analyzing existing policies, examining sports infrastructure, and gathering perspectives from disabled athletes, coaches, and disability advocacy organizations, this research provides a comprehensive view of the state of disability sports in Indonesia. The paper evaluates the legal framework surrounding disability rights and sports inclusion, emphasizing the need for policy reforms that ensure fair access and opportunities for disabled athletes. It also discusses the role of the media and public perception in shaping attitudes towards disabled athletes. The study concludes with recommendations for improving accessibility, including adaptive sports facilities, inclusive coaching programs, and better legal protections for disabled athletes in Indonesia’s sporting landscape.