By Barrier Free Japan
October 23 2026
NAGOYA – There have been calls for the organizers of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games to improve accessibility for disabled volunteers, following criticism that insufficient consideration was given to those volunteering at the Asian Games.
Over 100 disabled individuals have volunteered for either the Asian Games, which concluded on Oct. 4, or the Asian Para Games, according to the organizing committee.
Sachiko Matsuki, 46, who suffers from retinitis pigmentosa that narrows her field of vision, previously volunteered at international events including the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. At the Asian Games, she guided the Pakistani delegation to its bus stop and arranged taxis.
While Matsuki uses a white cane, some roads were insufficiently paved and some passageways lacked lighting at night. She also saw wheelchair users unable to pass through entrances to rooms used for administrative work because of numerous steps.
Episode notes:
‘Disabled volunteers call for improved accessibility at Asian Para Games’:
0 comments on “Volunteers with disabilities call for improved accessibility at Asian Para Games [Podcast Episode]”