Secretary-General's speech on the first day of World Down Syndrome Day

Today (20 12 03 2 1- Dongli note) is the first anniversary of "World Down Syndrome Day". I congratulate governments, activists, families, professionals and others on their global partnership in this regard. Their enthusiasm and unremitting efforts created this World Day.

For a long time, patients with Down syndrome, including children, have been on the edge of society. In many countries, they continue to face stigma and discrimination, as well as legal, attitudinal and environmental barriers that prevent them from participating in the community.

Discrimination can be as disgusting as forced sterilization or as subtle as apartheid, which can be achieved through practical and social barriers. Down syndrome patients are often deprived of equal status before the law, as well as the right to vote and stand for election. Mental retardation is also regarded as a legitimate reason for depriving Down syndrome patients of their freedom and sending them to specialized institutions, sometimes life imprisonment.

In many countries, girls and boys with mental retardation lack sufficient opportunities to receive mainstream education. The prejudice that children with Down syndrome will interfere with other people's education leads some parents of children with mental retardation to send their children to special schools or keep them at home. However, research shows that-more and more people are beginning to understand-diversity in the classroom will promote learning and understanding and benefit all children.

For decades, the United Nations has been striving to ensure the well-being and human rights of all people. These efforts were reinforced by the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2006. The Convention embodies a paradigm shift. Disabled people are no longer regarded as objects of charity and welfare, but people with equal rights and dignity, who can make great contributions to society by virtue of their own rights.

On the occasion of World Day, let us reiterate that people with Down syndrome have the right to fully and effectively enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms. Let's try our best to let children and patients with Down syndrome fully participate in social development and life on the basis of equality with others. Let's build an inclusive society for all.