Ambassador in Moscow Hosts Emotional Meeting on Inclusion with Students

Moscow: An emotional meeting, entirely focused on the theme of inclusion and support for people with disabilities, was held in the context of the World Day of People with Down Syndrome.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Embassy supported the participation of Gabriele di Bello and Luca Tornatore, the young protagonist and director of ‘Upside Down’ (2021), in a screening of the film hosted by the Moscow Language University MGLU. The film was awarded last year at Moscow’s international “Cinema Without Barriers” festival as the best film for young people and was well-received by an audience including students, educators, young people with disabilities, and representatives of civil society associations.

The discussion with the audience explored the making of Luca Tornatore’s film, which was supported by three Italian regions-Lazio, Puglia, and Valle d’Aosta-and Rai Cinema. The film tells the story of Paolo, a young man with Down syndrome who dreams of becoming a boxer, played by Gabriele di Bello. Di Bello’s personal and professional experiences brought a message of hope and challenged stereotypes, resonating with the audience.

Ambassador Cecilia Piccioni referenced President of the Republic Mattarella’s words, noting that the inclusion of people with disabilities is a test of human rights and democratic values. Italy’s approach to the issue intrigued many participants, leading to interest in further events and studies. The event also featured the first Russian exhibition of “The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities through the Eyes of Young People,” supported by the Ministry for Disabilities and the Umbrian School of Public Administration.

The Embassy, along with the General Consulates in Moscow and St. Petersburg and the Honorary Consular Network, is committed to raising awareness of Italy’s values among Russian civil society, focusing on young and vulnerable groups.