The 32nd session of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which took place on March 21, 2025, celebrated  World down syndrome day. It marked a significant step forward in the global effort to uphold the dignity and rights of persons with Down syndrome. On this occasion, the “Fondation Jerôme Lejeune” and “Down Syndrome International” organised a panel discussion named “Support systems Advancing Inclusion for Full Community Integration of Persons with Down Syndrome”.

The celebration was particularly meaningful, emphasizing the urgent need to strengthen health, education, employment, and inclusion support systems. Testimonies from individuals with Down syndrome reminded us that real progress comes not only from policy but from practical, compassionate support. The Committee also addressed critical issues such as the lack of resources, limited accessibility, and gaps in sign language interpretation—areas where we, as a humanitarian order, can continue to advocate for improvement. The call to action was clear: international conventions must be matched by real-world support, and no policy should be made without the voices of those it affects.

Ambassador Michel Veuthey, who participated as a panellist, first discussed the vulnerability of persons with disabilities to human trafficking. He then highlighted the many concrete actions that the Sovereign Order of Malta has taken in many countries around the world to support people with disabilities, mentioning the work in France, Poland, Lebanon and the work of the Cuban Association in the Dominican Republic.

Link for the intervention is HERE.