Who we are
Welcome to EDSA
The European Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) is a non-profit organisation supporting and representing people with Down syndrome across Europe.
EDSA brings together organisations from across Europe, sharing information and promoting collaboration to improve life for people with Down syndrome and their families. On this website you can find out more about EDSA, its purpose and structure and its member organizations.
EDSA’s main objective is to promote the complete development of people with Down syndrome, regardless of racial, linguistic, religious, philosophical, or political considerations. EDSA seeks to improve the health, education and training, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome, so that each one can lead as normal a life as possible.
EDSA’s priorities may be summarized as follows:
EDSA brings together organisations from across Europe, sharing information and promoting collaboration to improve life for people with Down syndrome and their families. On this website you can find out more about EDSA, its purpose and structure and its member organizations.
EDSA’s main objective is to promote the complete development of people with Down syndrome, regardless of racial, linguistic, religious, philosophical, or political considerations. EDSA seeks to improve the health, education and training, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome, so that each one can lead as normal a life as possible.
Protection of the rights of people with Down syndrome
Establishing health and early care programmes Emphasising family support and caring for the seriously disabled
The provision of genetic counselling when diagnosis has been confirmed
Diversity in education initiatives
Promoting access to employment and providing guidance for adult life
Providing guardianship services and training specialists
Promoting positive social images
Supporting research and the development and implementation of new technologies
Guaranteeing professional and dedicated association leadership.
Mission and goals
The mission of EDSA is to promote the development of a network of associations for Down syndrome in all European nations, respecting the diversity of cultures and peoples, the common denominator being the improvement of the quality of life for persons with Down syndrome and their families.
EDSA’s goals are to:
1
promote all actions and efforts which contribute to the welfare of persons with Down Syndrome according to the rights awarded to them by their own constitution, the Declaration of Human Rights and rights of persons with disabilities by the United Nations, and the European convention relating to the protection of fundamental rights and liberties.
2
promote the well-being of persons with Down Syndrome in every possible way and area, and in every aspect of life: health, education, personality, autonomy and integration in the society according to the individual’s aspirations and capabilities.
3
encourage all scientific efforts towards advances and improvements in medical care, education, rehabilitation, vocational training, employment, leisure and independent living.
4
further the interests of persons with Down Syndrome by securing all necessary resources, support and services to that end.
5
create a bond among all persons with Down Syndrome, their families, friends and associations. (from Article 3 of the EDSA Bylaws)
