Four-time Paralympic medalist in wheelchair fencing, Alim Latrèche is now a member of parliament for Isère. He officially took office on March 27th at the National Assembly. He spoke to Francs Jeux about his commitment and the challenges facing the Paralympic Movement.
What do the Paralympic Games represent for you?
From a sporting perspective, it's the pinnacle of competition. Participating in the Paralympic Games represents a goal you had to reach. It's the final step; after that, there's nothing higher! I've been lucky enough to do three, and they're unique moments.
How did you experience the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games?
On TV, and I thought it was fantastic! The organization got a lot of criticism, but they did a superb job putting on magnificent Games. I found it truly original, especially the opening ceremony. A unique ceremony that revealed French history. For both the participants and the spectators, it was a fantastic Games. I thought it was magnificent.
France and the Paralympic Movement had high expectations for these Games. What is your view on their legacy?
From my perspective, I feel we've reached a new level of visibility. Regarding accessibility, I don't see much improvement, no significant change. In terms of attitudes and perceptions, it might be slightly different, but we still have vehicles parked on sidewalks, and the infrastructure could be better designed… It remains quite difficult on public transportation.
Do you use public transport when you are in Paris?
I either take a taxi or the bus. The difficulties you can encounter are getting on when the bus is too crowded, roadworks, or complications at the bus stop… Recently, I haven't had any problems where drivers refused to take me. That happened to me several years ago; they said they weren't trained, etc.
France is preparing to host the Paralympic Games again in 2030. Do you think this is a real opportunity?
There's still work to be done, especially in terms of accessibility. We won't be able to make the mountains 100% accessible, but we can at least make them more accessible so that everyone can enjoy them. I hope that with these Games, we can make as much effort as in Paris, or even more. Living in Isère, I can participate in winter sports. I see that things have been done. There are places that make it easier to welcome people with disabilities, that try to consider them, but we always need to anticipate.
A few weeks ago, you were at the Mountain Planet trade show in Grenoble, alongside Edgar Grospiron. Were you able to discuss the project with him?
We mainly discussed opening the Games to other disabilities. Currently, the Paralympic Games do not include adapted sports. I think we can expand the Paralympic Games further. The idea was well received by the organizing committee, as well as by the regional authorities.
How did you transition to political engagement?
I got involved in my club as a volunteer, then I became president. Being president of a club isn't just about competition; it's also about making sport accessible to everyone, empowerment through sport, and civic engagement. We set up a health-focused sports program for women with breast cancer, allowing them to use fencing for rehabilitation and regain their confidence. I worked with a few elected officials. Then, my friend Camille Galliard-Minier decided to go into politics and run for parliament, and she asked me to be her substitute. It wasn't planned. Going into politics with a member of parliament who was close to the party wasn't part of my vision or ambitions, but after talking with her, I thought it could be an opportunity to learn more and to expand the work I was already doing in the areas of sport and education.
You can also bring a different perspective.
Absolutely. I'm not going to revolutionize politics, but perhaps offer a different perspective, a more "on-the-ground" view.
Did you experience the strongest emotion when arriving at the National Assembly or at the Paralympic Games?
I'll say the Games, because it's something I really prepared for and worked on. The National Assembly is different, but it's an honor. I'm proud to be here, to know that people are counting on me.
How are your first few weeks in the Chamber going?
Okay! I'm encountering some difficulties getting settled in; it's quite an undertaking, but the Assembly's services are very supportive and a tremendous help. I'm finding my feet, trying to be as present in Paris as I am in my constituency. There's a lot to do. There are discussions and decisions that are sometimes difficult to make, and for which I lack the necessary experience or perspective, so I rely on my parliamentary group, while remaining true to my values and opinions.
Are there any particular issues you would like to see addressed?
I'm part of the social affairs committee. I was able to take on a topic related to local communities and sports facilities; it's not a major issue, but it's still important. I'm new to politics, but looking back, it makes sense given my involvement in sports, community organizations, and as a citizen. I feel like everything is connected; there are links that resonate with me. I'm trying to apply what I've applied in sports and in my various commitments. I don't know where I'll be tomorrow, but I'm going to give this role my all. I'm going to give it my all.
