Program and Regulatory Support for the Development of Physical Culture and Sports for Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

Abstract. The article analyzes the program and regulatory foundations for the development of physical culture and sports for persons with disabilities in Ukraine in the context of recent legislative updates and growing social needs. The purpose of the study is to investigate the current state of national policies, institutional mechanisms, and legal frameworks that determine access to physical activity, rehabilitation, and sports for persons with disabilities, as well as to compare them with international practices. The research applies theoretical analysis of scientific literature, examination of legal and strategic documents, comparative legal analysis, systematization, and generalization of key findings. The results demonstrate that Ukraine has established a substantial regulatory base supported by national and regional programs, while the recognition of adaptive sport as an independent policy area in 2025 significantly strengthened the strategic coherence of the sector. The study highlights the important role of the «Invasport» system, which forms the organizational backbone for providing inclusive and rehabilitation-oriented sports services. Attention is given to the challenges of interagency cooperation, fragmentation of regulatory acts, infrastructural constraints, and insufficient integration of innovative technologies. A comparative overview of international approaches—particularly those implemented by the EU, UNICEF, and the International Paralympic Committee—shows that effective models rely on multilevel partnerships, universal design standards, technological advancements, and sustainable funding. The conclusions emphasize the need to enhance coordination between state and regional stakeholders, expand inclusive sports programs, modernize infrastructure, and incorporate global best practices to improve the effectiveness of Ukraine’s adaptive sports policy.