On 19 December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared 21 March as World Down Syndrome Day (A/RES/66/149). The General Assembly decided, with effect from 2012, to observe World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March each year, and invites all Member States, relevant organizations of the United Nations system and other international organizations, as well as civil society, including non-governmental organizations and the private sector, to observe World Down Syndrome Day in an appropriate manner, in order to raise public awareness of Down Syndrome. For further information visit the United Nations World Down Syndrome Day Website Pages.

History and Background

The resolution was adopted by consensus during the plenary meeting of the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday 10 November 2011. It was proposed and promoted by Brazil, following an original request by the Brazilian Federation of Association of Down Syndrome, who worked with Down Syndrome International and its members to launch an extensive campaign to generate international support. The resolution was eventually co-sponsored by 78 UN Member States. Down syndrome groups and associations around the world campaign for their governments to co-sponsor the resolution. In addition, DSi launched an international petition for the adoption of World Down Syndrome Day by the UN. This received more than 12,00 signatures in a 2 week period and was presented to the Chair of the Third Committee. 

This resolution was a major step forward towards Down Syndrome International goal for World Down Syndrome Day to be observed and celebrated by persons with Down syndrome, their families and friends, those who live and work with them and all persons who wish to promote and ensure quality of life and human rights for all persons with Down syndrome.