Georgia hosts exhibition marking World Down Syndrome Week

A series of special events marking World Down Syndrome Week are happening in Georgia.

Each year people and countries around the world celebrate World Down Syndrome Week on March 13-21. 

The Photo exhibition. Photo by Ministry of Justice. 

Today in Tbilisi Georgia’s Minister of Justice Thea Tsulukiani hosted special events dedicated to raising public awareness about people with the genetic disease.

The Minister viewed a photo exhibition by modern Georgian photographers at the Ministry of Justice Studying Centre in capital Tbilisi reflecting children with Down’s syndrome. 

Children with the generic disease also had an opportunity to exhibit and sell their own handicrafts at the exhibition.

Handicrafts made by the children with Down's syndrome. Photo by Ministry of Justice. 

Later this week a conference was planned where Georgian Government officials, representatives from the civil sector and international organisations will discuss issues facing those with Down’s syndrome in Georgia.

In 2011 the United Nations (UN) recognised March 21 as World Down’s Syndrome Day. Each year on this day activities and events are held in many countries as a way to raise awareness of Down’s syndrome.

Georgia's Minister of Justice Thea Tsulukiani hosted the event. Photo by Ministry of Justice. 

One in every 800 infants are born with Down’s syndrome. It is not a disease but a genetic disorder and babies with this condition can be born to any family.

The theme of this year’s World Down’s Syndrome Day is: My friends, My Community - The benefits of inclusive environments for today’s children and tomorrow’s adults.