World Down Syndrome Day 2026 at United Nations Geneva
We were delighted to partner again with the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), European Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) and Association Romande Trisomie 21 (ART 21) to organise a programme of activities in Geneva for World Down Syndrome Day 2026.
Thursday 19 March
What: World Down Syndrome Day celebration
When: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Hall XIV, Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland
A special celebration organised by the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), in collaboration with Down Syndrome International (DSi) and the Association Romande Trisomie 21 (ART 21).
Highlights:
- Speeches by key representatives of the United Nations
- Speeches by people with Down syndrome on the 2026 theme, ‘Together Against Loneliness’
- Live performance by Autrement Aujourd’hui
- Poster displays
- Photo shoot
- A tour of the Palais des Nations for people with Down syndrome and their families.
Saturday 21 March
What: Self-advocacy workshop for people with Down syndrome
When: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Where: La Maison Internationale des Associations, Rue des Savoises 15, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
A workshop led by Down Syndrome International, with options to take part in French and English.
What: Inclusive show
When: Throughout the day, with a program of inclusive shows between 2:00 to 5:00 PM
Where: Balexert, Av. Louis-Casaï 27, 1209 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Balloons, crafts, dancing, music, self-representation speeches and more.
What: Gala evening
When: from 6:30 to 11:00 PM
Where: Restaurant at Plage des Eaux Vives, 75 Quai Gustave-Ador, 1207, Geneva, Switzerland
A cocktail dinner, with dancing, music and photos, with a view of jet d’eau lit in blue and yellow for World Down Syndrome Day. This event is hosted by ART 21.
15th World Down Syndrome Day Conference, New York
You may also be interested to learn about the World Down Syndrome Day Conference, which will take place at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Monday 23 March.
To learn more about the Conference, please visit the event website:
Learn more about World Down Syndrome Day:
World Down Syndrome Day.
On 21 March each year, we speak up about the things that matter to people with Down syndrome around the world.