We believe everyone should have access to employment in inclusive workplaces
People with Down syndrome have the right to work, as described in Article 27 (Work and Employment) of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
This work should be in an open, inclusive, and accessible labour market and work environment.
Experience in many countries shows that with the right opportunities, support and training, people with Down syndrome can make substantial contributions in the workplace.
Some are already doing this in open, inclusive, and accessible workplaces. This is a basic right.
However, stereotypes, mistaken assumptions, negative attitudes, and lack of knowledge are preventing most from realising this right.
Employers are missing opportunities to improve the quality of their workplaces.
The DSi network advocates for open, inclusive, and accessible workplaces.
Everyone should have access to employment in inclusive workplaces.
For people with Down syndrome this can be achieved if:
This is also true of every person who currently faces barriers to employment.
What we are describing here is an inclusive employment system.
We are working with our global network of member organisations to advocate for inclusive employment.
Check out our current projects:
The work is part of a programme led by the International Disability Alliance and funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD).
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This work is funded by Inclusive Futures, a UK Aid-funded consortium of 16 disability and development organizations led by Sightsavers working to create a future that is inclusive of people with disabilities.
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We are learning all the time from our current projects.
In the future, we hope to do more work like this with our members, using what we are developing to have a substantial, positive impact.
We are also exploring ideas to work with employers and other key stakeholders around the world to facilitate inclusive employment.
Learn - find out what needs to change in the world so that all people with Down syndrome are fully included in society.
Inform - tell us what life is like for people with Down syndrome where you live.
Advocate - speak up for people with Down syndrome and disabilities.
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We are happy to share the 2023 World Down Syndrome Awardees. Congratulations to all! Read more
Down Syndrome International was established in 1993. This year we celebrate 30 years of inclusion advocacy! Read more
We are developing a case study and webinars on best practices in the inclusive employment of persons with intellectual disabilities Read more
We are supporting self-advocates in Bangladesh to advocate for employment opportunities Read more
We are training Down syndrome organisations in Africa to support self-advocates to fight for employment opportunities. Read more