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On World Down Syndrome Day, we celebrate not only the incredible potential of individuals with Down syndrome but also the power of inclusion and the impact it can have on society.
Each year, an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 children worldwide are born with Down syndrome, with incidence rates ranging from 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 1,100 live births. While access to healthcare, inclusive education, and community support can significantly improve their quality of life, many individuals with Down syndrome still face barriers to full participation in society due to a lack of adequate support systems.
Yet, stories like those of Anes Kujović and Enaida Alispahić show that when given the right opportunities, individuals with Down syndrome can thrive, contribute, and inspire change in their communities.
Anes Kujović from Sarajevo made history as the first person with Down syndrome to become a United Nations Volunteer. Through the ReLOaD2 project, he secured a role within the Department for Education, Culture, and Sports at the Municipality of Centar Sarajevo- a groundbreaking achievement that demonstrated that inclusion isn’t just an ideal but a reality that benefits entire communities. Through his work, Anes not only proved his ability to contribute to his community, but he also became a pioneering example, showing that people with Down syndrome can play an active role in society when given the chance.
Anes Kujovic
Similarly, Enaida Alispahić’s journey with ReLOaD2 was a significant milestone in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where employment opportunities for people with Down syndrome are almost nonexistent. Enaida’s participation in the project marked her first professional experience, and her success proved that when given the proper support, individuals with Down syndrome can thrive in the workplace. Enaida's confidence and independence grew through this experience, and she showed that inclusive employment not only benefits individuals but enriches communities as a whole.
Enaida Alispahic
The stories of Anes and Enaida highlight the importance of creating inclusive work environments and the need for policies that support the employment of people with disabilities. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, where only a handful of people with Down syndrome have secured permanent employment, their experiences serve as a reminder that inclusion is not just about providing jobs- it’s about creating opportunities for individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
ReLOaD2 set a powerful example by offering inclusive internships, and since then, similar opportunities have been extended to 22 young people across Bosnia and Herzegovina, including four individuals with disabilities. This has sparked a movement towards more inclusive work environments, and the hope is that other institutions will follow suit, making inclusive employment the norm rather than the exception.
Bosnia and Herzegovina signed and ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities more than 15 years ago, which entails legally binding obligations to ensure the full inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in society. However, challenges remain in shifting from a charitable approach to a human rights-based model that recognizes persons with disabilities as rights holders rather than recipients of care. This includes ensuring accessible workplaces, equal employment opportunities, and the elimination of structural barriers to full participation.
As we celebrate the achievements of Anes and Enaida, it is essential to advocate for continued progress. With the launch of ReLOaD3 in 2025, the legacy of these efforts will continue, empowering individuals, strengthening civil society, and fostering more open, resilient, and democratic societies across the Western Balkans. Their stories remind us that when we give people with Down syndrome the opportunities they deserve, they don’t just break barriers- they lead the way.
At UNDP, we are proud to work alongside our partners, the European Union and local institutions, united in our commitment to building a more inclusive society. It is both our responsibility and privilege to create opportunities that empower every individual, ensuring that no one is left behind.
