On 19 December 2011, in order to raise societal awareness on Down Syndrome in the entire world, prevent persons with Down Syndrome from facing discrimination and negative attitudes, draw attention to the importance of early and continuous education, and to increase existing job opportunities and work fields, United Nations (UN) declared March 21 as World Down Syndrome Awareness Day. The date which is 21st day of the 3rd month was chosen to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
According to UN data, one in every 1000 or 1100 babies are born with Down Syndrome globally. It is estimated that this percentage is increasing slightly each year. Persons with Down Syndrome can experience delays in cognitive, language, movement development and social, emotional and communication skills compared to their peers. Because of this, in order to increase the life quality of persons with Down Syndrome, it is of utmost importance to meet their healthcare needs, including regular check-ups to monitor their mental, and physical conditions, and to provide opportunities such as physiotherapy, speech therapy, counseling, or special education. Persons with Down Syndrome can achieve the optimal quality of life with parental care and support, social-based support systems such as medical guidance and comprehensive education at all levels. Within this scope, it is of utmost importance to show maximum sensitivity to get rid of the obstacles on their way to participate in society and achieve their personal potential, and also to combat all kinds of discrimination, exclusion, prejudice, and hate speech.
Our Institution, main mission of which is to guarantee persons' right to equal treatment on the basis of human dignity and prevent discrimination in the enjoyment of legally recognized rights and freedoms, is continuing its efforts to build a society where all prejudices and discriminations are eradicated by whether it be investigations of violations regarding persons with Down Syndrome or awareness-raising activities.
Respectfully announced to the public.