Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder where the person carries one more chromosome in his DNA chain. This disorder is accompanied by a delay in physical growth and light intellectual disability. There is no formula regarding the occurrence of the cases and the frequency which it occurs, as there is no cure. Individuals carrying one more chromosome are subject to psychological and physical therapies to adapt to society and in most cases have no difference from the rest of society but are still faced with many prejudices.

How can this stigmatized group into the society?

Without having any fundamental change from the rest of the society, people with Down syndrome are as complex and dynamic as others. They are included in many fields of creativity of art and sports, or even better than undiagnosed individuals.

A concrete example is the sporting involvement of people with special intellectual skills in sports through the work of the world organization “Special Olympics”. This organization extends its work to 172 countries all over the world, including Albania. This organization enables training of talented athletes, and their competition in international events, without any distinction from other athletes.

The Special Olympics Goal is not just training people with Down syndrome, but their involvement in every area of human activity, highlighting their values. Integrating these people into society should be a mission that belongs to everyone, not just such organizations.

Integration through sporting activities and sports socialization is not only beneficial for the diagnosed persons, but also for the supporters of the cause and society. A good practice is the formation of open-air sports groups for all, children and adults, regardless of differences.

A child practiced in such comprehensive groups does not only learn the techniques of a certain sport but is also educated. Children become more open to change, receptive and in the long term eliminate the stigma against their peers and peers with Down Syndrome.

How close to this objective is Albanian society?