European Union Partners for Inclusion, Youth, and Health at the Hope and Possibility Marathon 2025

European Union Partners for Inclusion, Youth, and Health at the Hope and Possibility Marathon 2025

The European Union, through its Global Gateway initiative, joined the Hope and Possibility Marathon 2025 to promote inclusion, equality, youth participation, and health at Mongolia's largest inclusive running event.

Organized by Achilles International Mongolia and held at Ulaanbaatar's National Garden Park, the marathon brought together around 3,000 participants - including youth, athletes, persons with disabilities, families, and supporters united under this year's motto: "Spread Hope, Share Possibility, Seize Opportunity."

Mongolia is home to approximately 112,000 persons with disabilities, many of whom face barriers to participation in public life. The marathon provides a powerful platform to break down these barriers, demonstrating that disability is no obstacle to achievement and that sports can restore confidence, health, and hope. Through its Global Gateway initiative and flagship campaign "Future is Yours", the European Union supports persons with disabilities, young people, and public health in Mongolia. This partnership reflects the EU's broader commitment to building inclusive, resilient, and healthy societies where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

First introduced in 2014, the Hope and Possibility Marathon has grown into a nationwide movement of solidarity and inclusion. Since 2015, it has been held every September, engaging more than 20,000 participants, 1,500 volunteers, and 250 partners and sponsors. Even during the pandemic, the event continued virtually, underscoring its importance to the community. The 2025 edition featured six categories: the 42 km full marathon, 21 km half marathon, 10 km run, 5 km fun run, 1.5 km "We Are Together" race for persons with disabilities, families, and friends, and the 21 km handcycle race. Each distance offered participants the chance to challenge themselves, inspire others, and promote healthy living - side by side, regardless of ability.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Ms. Ina Marciulionytė, Ambassador of the European Union to Mongolia, said: "The Hope and Possibility Marathon is more than a race. It is a celebration of courage, equality, and community spirit. The European Union stands with Mongolia's youth and people of all abilities in showing that the future truly is yours. By supporting inclusive sports, we are investing in a healthier, stronger, and more united society".

Ms. Saranchuluun, Founder of Achilles International Mongolia and Member of Parliament, said: "When we first introduced the Hope and Possibility Marathon to Mongolia, our goal was to inspire people of all abilities to challenge themselves and each other. Today, as thousands of runners join side by side, we see that this spirit of inclusion has become part of Mongolia's future. I am proud that our youth are carrying this forward, and we deeply appreciate the support of international partners such as the European Union".

The EU's support for the marathon is part of its wider Global Gateway strategy, which promotes sustainable and trusted connections that work for people and the planet. In Mongolia, Global Gateway investments extend beyond sport - focusing on renewable energy, clean urban infrastructure, sustainable forestry, and eco-businesses. These efforts are creating local jobs, building essential skills, and supporting youth empowerment to ensure sustainable growth. Through these initiatives, the European Union is investing in Mongolia's future, one that is inclusive, green, and resilient.

About Global Gateway

The Global Gateway stands for sustainable and trusted connections that work for people and the planet. It helps to tackle the most pressing global challenges, from fighting climate change to improving health systems and boosting the competitiveness and security of global supply chains.

About the European Union

The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, the environment, and economies, so that everyone can benefit.