The event is taking place simultaneously in New York and Geneva (17-19 March). This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all celebrations were moved online.  Poland, together with Australia, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, as well as UNICEF and the International Disability Alliance, co-hosts the event, and is traditionally one of its sponsors. As usual, the celebrations will start with an introductory panel, attended by the event’s sponsors. It will be then followed by discussion panels with the participation of persons with Down syndrome as self-advocates. The panels will also be attended by representatives of research centres and non-governmental organisations.

Poland is represented by Ms Natalia Szymańska, a former student of the Special Basic Vocational School No. 54 in Warsaw. She has been working with the Otwarte Drzwi Association for the past ten years, currently as part of the PARTNERS Support Centre for the Disabled People. Ms Szymańska is actively involved in the process of professional and social rehabilitation, both individually and as part of group activities. She took up a position adapted to her disability under the supported employment system, using a job coach service. As part of this year’s WDSD, Poland presents a short film prepared by Ms Szymańska and Association employees, in which she talks about her job, interests and free time activities.

Poland’s participation in WDSD reflects the importance that Polish foreign policy attaches to the problems of persons with disabilities. The event is an opportunity to present Poland’s achievements in this area and to share good examples of legal solutions with the international community.

To follow the virtual event, go to the page. An online live broadcast is also available at the UN platform. 

 

MFA Press Office

photo: Małgorzata Mikołajczyk