Down Syndrome International (DSi) is the first international organisation dedicated to the rights of people with Down syndrome, founded in 1993 with a network of more than 150 national member organisations from across the world. It works on international advocacy, institutional capacity-building, training, and empowering self-advocacy. Website: ds-int.org
What Teachers and Educators Can Benefit From
- International Education Guidelines for Down Syndrome: developed in collaboration with teachers, educational experts, and international network members, available in multiple languages and guiding educators on best practices in teaching people with Down syndrome
- Inclusive Organisation Principles: guidelines for educational institutions on how to include people with intellectual disabilities, available in Arabic, English, and Spanish
- Inclusive Education Resources: materials supporting the application of inclusion and inclusive education principles in classrooms
What Advocates and Policymakers Can Benefit From
- UN Human Rights Advocacy: work on implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) at the United Nations, with reports and advocacy tools for engagement with international bodies
- World Down Syndrome Congress: the largest international gathering in this field, bringing together individuals, families, and experts from around the world. The next edition is planned for Argentina in May 2027
- International Advocacy Alliance: a network of organisations working together to influence policies and legislation on the rights of people with Down syndrome at the international level
What Individuals with Down Syndrome Can Benefit From
- Self-Advocacy Network: comprising 19 members from 9 organisations, led by people with Down syndrome from the United Kingdom and New Zealand. It represents the voices of individuals themselves in international forums and influences the organisation's decisions
- Participation in Decision-Making: individuals with Down syndrome participate in leading the organisation and setting its priorities — a unique model among international organisations
What the Arabic-Speaking Community Can Particularly Benefit From
- Arabic-Language Materials: some DSi guidelines and principles are available in Arabic, making it a rare resource among internationally available Arabic-language materials
- World Down Syndrome Day Events (21 March): coordination of international campaigns, events, and promotional materials in which Arab organisations can participate
- Capacity Building: support for national member organisations through training and resources to develop their services