Photo from Charlotte Fien’s Speech at the HRC 2018: Fondation Jérôme Lejeune
By Sylvia Mesesi
However, while society claims to advocate for inclusivity, the reality for individuals with Down syndrome remains starkly different. Their right to life is under constant threat, before they even take their first breath.
Understanding Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. Worldwide, approximately 6 million people live with this condition.
The symptoms can manifest in various ways, across a wide spectrum. Some individuals may need additional care and support, while others are able to lead independent lives, pursuing education, careers, and ambitions. Despite their abilities, individuals with Down syndrome face discrimination at an alarming rate, beginning long before they are born.
Abortion of Babies with Down Syndrome
One of the most insidious forms of discrimination against people with Down syndrome occurs in the womb. Prenatal screenings, which are only 85% accurate, are used to detect genetic conditions, including Down syndrome. Following these tests, many expectant mothers are presented with the option, or even encouraged to terminate the pregnancy.
In Iceland, this has resulted in a near-total elimination of births of babies with Down syndrome. Other countries, particularly in Europe, are following suit, with termination rates reaching a staggering 90% for unborn babies suspected to have Down syndrome. This silent genocide is being carried out under the guise of "choice," but what it truly represents is the systematic erasure of an entire group of people based on their genetic makeup. In some European countries, there are no abortion limits for children with Down syndrome, allowing abortion up until birth.
Seven years ago, Charlotte Fien, a passionate advocate with Down syndrome, delivered a powerful speech before the United Nations, highlighting the urgent need to protect individuals like her from abortion. In her stirring words:
“You can try to kill off everyone with Down Syndrome by using abortion, but you won’t be any closer to a perfect society. You will just be closer to a cruel, heartless one.”
Her message remains just as relevant today. Society’s pursuit of a so-called “perfect” world is leading us down a dark path—one where the value of human life is determined by perceived “imperfections” rather than the inherent dignity of every person. Do we have the right to decide whether someone can live a happy life or not?
The role of Governments
Human rights begin at conception, and so does discrimination. It is deeply concerning that while laws exist to protect individuals with disabilities after birth, many governments turn a blind eye to their right to life before birth. True protection for people with Down syndrome must start before they are born. This means enacting laws that prohibit abortion based on a Down syndrome diagnosis.
Furthermore, parents should be supported and empowered to raise children with Down syndrome, not pressured into terminating their pregnancies. Societies that claim to champion diversity and inclusion cannot, in good conscience, support the mass elimination of an entire group of people based on genetic differences.
Advocating for Life, Family, and Freedom
As an organization that stands for life, family, and freedom, Christian Council International (CCI) strongly advocates for the protection of unborn children, including those diagnosed with Down syndrome. We believe that:
- Every life is precious, regardless of ability or disability.
- A choice should not be placed above a child's right to life.
- Countries should implement laws that ban abortion of people with Down syndrome and make their lives possible.
- Parents deserve support that makes parenting possible, not pressure to terminate their pregnancies.
On this World Down Syndrome Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us. Let us work toward a world that welcomes, cherishes, and supports individuals with Down syndrome, not one that seeks to eliminate them.
Conclusion
We have come so far as a society, overcoming challenges and advocating for the dignity of all people. Yet, in many ways, we are regressing—denying the most fundamental right to those who need protection the most. Individuals with Down syndrome deserve love, respect, and the opportunity to thrive. More than anything, they deserve the chance to live.
As we observe this day, let us commit to changing laws, shifting mindsets, and building a world that values every life , not because it is "perfect," but because it is sacred.
Sylvia Mesesi is CCI Policy Officer Africa