North Macedonia President Stevo Pendarovski walks bullied girl with Down syndrome to school

An 11-year-old girl with Down syndrome has recently been accompanied to school by her country’s very own president.

According to a CNN report, North Macedonia President Stevo Pendarovski walked with Embla Ademi in Gostivar City on Monday after he learned she was being bullied at school.

Photos and videos shared by the president’s Facebook page showed him visiting Embla and her family at home and walking with her to school.

A spokesperson for the president said the girl experienced bullying “as a result of having Down syndrome—a genetic condition that causes learning disabilities, health problems and distinctive facial characteristics.”

The report also said the president “‘talked to Embla’s parents about the challenges she and her family face on a daily basis,’ and discussed solutions.”

In a statement, Pendarovski said “the behavior of those who endanger children’s rights is unacceptable, especially when it comes to children with atypical development.”

It added: “They should not only enjoy the rights they deserve, but also feel equal and welcome in the school desks and schoolyard. It is our obligation, as a state, but also as individuals, and the key element in this common mission is empathy.” – RC, GMA News