World Down Syndrome Day at the United Nations Geneva
Thursday, 19 March 2026, Palais des Nations
Join us on Thursday, 19 March 2026 at the Palais des Nations to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, organised by UNOG in collaboration with Down Syndrome International (DSi) and Association Romande Trisomie 21 (ART21).
This year’s event, under the theme of “Together Against Loneliness”, will bring together Member States, individuals living with Down syndrome, families, advocates and experts to promote the rights and well-being of people living with Down syndrome worldwide.
Program
Morning Activities
Tour of the Palais des Nations
Time: 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Participants: People living with Down syndrome and their families
A special guided tour of the Palais des Nations will provide an opportunity to discover the historical diplomatic significance of the United Nations headquarters in Geneva.
Meet and greet with the K9 unit (security dogs)
Time: 11.15 a.m.
Place: Hall XIV
Meet the United Nations K9 security dogs, watch a short demonstration of how they work with their handlers to help keep the Palais des Nations safe, and enjoy a chance to interact with the dogs.
Celebration – “Together Against Loneliness”
Time: 1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Venue: Hall XIV, Building A (in front of Assembly Hall)
Registration
Participants are invited to register via Indico.
External visitors must register in advance.
Highlights
- Remarks by Member States representatives
- Interventions by self-advocates and representatives from Down Syndrome International
- Live dance performances by young people living with Down syndrome
- Recognition of initiatives supporting inclusion
- “Lots of Socks” themed photobooth
- Digital display of World Down Syndrome Day posters from EDSA and ART 21
Dance performance - “Past, Present, Future”
Time: 1:45 p.m.
Venue: Hall XIV, Building A (in front of Assembly Hall)
Duration: 15 minutes
A poetic choreography performed by dancers from the Théâtre de l’Esquisse, exploring the theme of time.
Through movement, the dancers reflect on memory, the present moment and the future, celebrating together the paths and experiences that shape our lives.