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Time and again, people with Down syndrome are almost automatically judged as less capable or ‘classified’ based on outdated stereotypes.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 […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Turkey
Individuals with Down syndrome want to work, participate in the economy and have a say in their own lives.The most sustainable and efficient way to do this is for companies to work with the job coach supported employment model. Increasing the number of supported employment job coaches is essential for individuals with disabilities to access […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Ukraine
It’s 8 years inclusion in schools has been given the green light by legislation in Ukraine. Children with Down syndrome are attending secondary schools more likely. This means that teachers need classroom assistants to adapt programs, and children with Down syndrome need student assistants. There are not enough of them, and teachers are left alone […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Spain
Social inclusion does not occur within associations. It really happens when people with Down syndrome are able to actively participate in community spaces and resources. To do so, they need to understand how to use these spaces autonomously. Only by ensuring cognitive accessibility and clear communication will we promote real participation and real independent life. […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Slovenia
After graduating from school, employment opportunities in an inclusive environment are rare. Many young people with Down syndrome have many talents, which unfortunately cannot be used in their later lives in their work. We want more opportunities for employment in different fields. Po končanem šolanju, so možnosti zaposlitve v vključujočem okolju redke. Mnogi mladi z […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Italy
In Italy, since 1971, there have been no more special classes, and students with disabilities attend school alongside their peers, but today, inclusion is not enough. Students with disabilities need to be active participants in the learning and skills that each one can acquire. For this, personalized programs are needed, but above all, specialized teachers […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Germany
Inclusion in sport means that all children – regardless of their physical or mental abilities – have the opportunity to play, learn and exercise together. Sport boosts self-confidence, promotes social integration and creates valuable community experiences. However, there is often a lack of suitable structures, trained coaches or financial resources to enable inclusive programmes across […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Czech Republic
Jindra is 12 years old and attends a mainstream primary school. Since there is a shortage of teaching staff who have experience with children with DS in our society, his father decided to quit his former job after twenty years and now attends primary school with Jindra as a teaching assistant. They are pictured together […]
WDSD 2025 “Improve Our Support Systems” – Albania
Many families face difficulties accessing essential services due to limited resources, high costs and/or lack of information. Join us in raising awareness and driving forward policy changes that prioritize early intervention and long-term care, because every child in Albania deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Shumë familje hasin vështirësi në aksesimin e shërbimeve […]