President on World Down Syndrome Day: Let us build a country where everyone is seen, heard, and supported

On World Down Syndrome Day, we are reminded that every person has their own path and their own way of bringing light to those around them. Let us build a country where everyone is seen, heard, and supported to move forward in their own way. This message was delivered today by President Maia Sandu.

The official emphasized that inclusion begins with simple gestures: with patience, openness, and a sincere desire to be there for one another.


“The world becomes a better place when we learn to look at one another with more understanding and respect. Let us build a country where everyone is seen, heard, and supported to move forward in their own way,” Maia Sandu stated.


Down syndrome is not a disease, but a permanent genetic change characterized by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. The World Health Organization reports that, globally, one in one thousand newborns is diagnosed with this genetic variation.

In the Republic of Moldova, Down syndrome can be identified prenatally through specific investigations, such as biochemical screening (double test, triple test), performed upon a doctor’s recommendation. In addition, children with Down syndrome benefit from psycho-verbal and motor rehabilitation services in specialized institutions such as: the Mother and Child Institute, the Republican Rehabilitation Center for Children, Municipal Clinical Hospital No. 1, and family doctor centers with rehabilitation specialists.

After turning 18, people with Down syndrome benefit from: multidisciplinary assessment and specialist medical consultations, physiotherapy sessions, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy, sessions with a psychologist, speech therapist, and special education teacher, as well as social assistance and behavioral therapies.

Worldwide, there are over 50 million people with Down syndrome. Around 50 of them are born each year in the Republic of Moldova.