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Before competing in the Paralympics, para athletes must undergo a controversial disability classification process to determine which sport classes (categories based on disability type) they are eligible for. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) governs this classification process and each country that competes at the Paralympic Games is required to abide by its code.
The classification process is intense, in part because of widespread accusations that some athletes fake or exaggerate their disabilities during classification to improve their chances of competition success. The process can also be degrading, according to many Paralympic athletes.
National Center on Disability and Journalism