Down Syndrome International has officially designated March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day to raise awareness and promote inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome.
The date March 21 (3/21) was chosen symbolically, representing the three copies of the 21st chromosome, which is the genetic characteristic of Down syndrome.
The goal of this global observance is to increase awareness, foster understanding, and advocate for the rights, dignity, and well-being of people with Down syndrome. It also aims to mobilize support and ensure meaningful participation in all aspects of life.
This year’s theme, “Strengthen Support Systems – Empower Lives,” highlights the need for effective and sustainable support structures that enhance independence, inclusion, and opportunities for people with Down syndrome.
World Down Syndrome Day is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the responsibility of society and all its members to uphold the fundamental human rights of individuals with Down syndrome. These rights include access to quality education, timely and adequate healthcare, opportunities for employment and financial independence, the freedom to make their own life choices, and the right to have their voices heard in decisions that affect them.
“By observing World Down Syndrome Day, we join a worldwide movement advocating for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with Down syndrome. It is our collective duty to create a society where every individual is valued, empowered, and given the opportunity to thrive,” said Primarius Dr. Mensura Hasanhodžić, specialist pediatrician and subspecialist in medical genetics, and head of the Center for Rare Diseases. Dr. Hasanhodžić brings extensive experience in both professional and scientific work with individuals with Down syndrome, advocating for their rights and well-being.
“My deep and personal interest in Down syndrome began in 1998 during my subspecialty training in clinical and later medical genetics. I dedicated my diploma thesis in France to this topic, followed by my master’s thesis—the first in Bosnia and Herzegovina to comprehensively study this population and establish the first registry of individuals with trisomy 21 at an institutional or cantonal level.
As a result of this extensive work, I developed a long-term collaboration with the Association ‘Life with Down Syndrome’ for the Federation of BiH, based in Sarajevo, which was founded in 2006. Since then, we have organized and conducted numerous training programs for parents and professionals in healthcare, education, and child development.
In 2009, I authored and edited the monograph Down Syndrome, which includes the Guide for Preventive and Systematic Monitoring of the Health Status of Children, Youth, and Adults with Down Syndrome. This publication remains a key resource for anyone working with this population in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Dr. Mensuda Hasanhodžić.
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the central celebration of World Down Syndrome Day will take place at Sarajevo City Hall on March 21, 2025, starting at 1:00 p.m. On this occasion, young people with Down syndrome will address the public, urging all levels of government and decision-makers to take concrete steps toward strengthening support systems for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
By marking this important day, Bosnia and Herzegovina joins the global movement, where people with Down syndrome around the world will stand together to demand their right to adequate support. They will highlight that the lack of respect for their rights not only affects their own quality of life but also impacts their families and society as a whole.
