We were dismayed to learn about MEP Panayiotou’s disparaging comments towards persons with intellectual disabilities during his appearance on a podcast.
It is shocking and unacceptable.
It clearly shows MEP Panayiotou’s ignorance about issues that affect over 20 million people – including his constituents.
We strongly support the condemnation of the remarks by the Cyprus confederation of organisations for people with disabilities (Kysoa) and the words from the Cyprus National Paralympic Committee:
“The use of such expressions can not be described as an “missed moment” or “humor”. It is a crude insult to persons with intellectual disabilities, to athletes who fight against prejudice and exclusion every day, but also to the Paralympic Movement itself that highlights the true meaning of strength and human effort.”
We expect MEP Panayiotou’s swift apologies. We call on him to promote respect and rights for persons with disabilities, instead of mocking us and perpetuating harm.
Signatories
- European Disability Forum
- Inclusion Europe