WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Malta
Youths with Down syndrome are taking the lead in raising awareness for stronger support systems and true inclusion. Their powerful message is clear: more awareness leads to better opportunities, acceptance, and access to resources. By promoting understanding and breaking down barriers, they are advocating for a world where everyone, regardless of ability, feels valued and […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Croatia
It is essential that early intervention in childhood is family-oriented and that it provides parents with key guidelines in encouraging the child’s development about everyday life routines. Parents must understand the specifics of stimulating the development of children with Down syndrome so that they have the opportunity to develop a healthy attachment pattern through which […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Russia
Digital skills open up new horizons. People with Down syndrome want equal opportunities for self-development and online communication. However, they need help mastering the digital world through training and support. Цифровые навыки открывают новые горизонты. Люди с синдромом Дауна хотят равных возможностей для саморазвития и онлайн-общения. Однако им нужна помощь в освоении цифрового мира посредством […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Spain, Catalonia
Few people live independently and in the community, with few resources of personalassistance. Many people live in residences as the only alternatives and have many difficultiesaccessing the community. Pocas personas viven independientes y en la comunidad, con pocos recursosde asistencia personal. Muchas personas viven en residencias como únicas alternativas y tienenmuchas dificultades para acceder a […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Luxembourg
Still many children with Down syndrome face barriers in mainstream schools. More individualized support, better-trained teachers and educators, and adapted teaching materials could help create a truly inclusive learning environment.Many people with Down syndrome are able to work but struggle to find jobs that match their abilities. Companies should receive guidance on how to adapt […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Switzerland, French Speaking
Even after a legal challenge, people with Down syndrome can only attend school for a maximum of 13 years. After that, they have to leave, but there are few options for what to do next. This highlights a serious problem in the system, which lacks enough support and guidance to help them move smoothly and […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Sweden
It’s getting harder to access support for activities like visiting the cinema, as applications for a support person are increasingly denied—even though they are vital for many persons with Down Syndrome to live like others. Many individuals with Down syndrome living in supported housing are losing their support companions or contact persons. Without this help, […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Romania
Adults with Down syndrome are not part of the scope of standard training offered. Most of them face a premature aging process, without opportunities to prevent the effects of this process and to adapt their daily routines to sustainable practices. Adulții cu sindrom Down nu fac parte din sfera ofertelor standard de formare. Majoritatea se […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – The Netherlands
Time and again, people with Down syndrome are almost automatically judged as less capable or ‘classified’ based on outdated stereotypes. This leads to the assumption that they are inherently unable to function within our usual frameworks, making participation virtually impossible. This is a clear example of discrimination. Their mothers (or parents) are often deeply involved […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Denmark
In Denmark, many people with Down syndrome face significant barriers to independence and inclusion. From limited job opportunities to restrictions on where and how they can live, their choices are often made for them rather than with them. Despite advocating for their rights, they remain largely excluded from disability policies, which rarely consider their perspectives […]