Celebrate the diverse contributions of people with autism, UN chief says

“Today and every day, let us fully recognize the active and diverse contributions of people with autism to our societies,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “Let’s work together with people with autism to build a more inclusive and accessible world for all.”

‘We must do better’

Despite significant progress, he said, People with autism continue to face social and environmental barriers to the full exercise of their rights and fundamental freedoms, in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“We must do better, by promoting inclusive education, equal employment opportunity, self-determinationand an environment where everyone is respected,” he said.

“As we do so, so do we recognize the role of families, caregivers, and support networks in the lives of people with autism.”

World events

A global virtual event hosted by the UN, Transition: Toward a Neuro-Integrated World for Allwill feature autistic people from around the world discussing how the change in history around neurodiversity can continue to improve in order to overcoming barriers and improving the lives of autistic people.

The event will also address the contributions that autistic people make – and can make – to society, and to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The event, which will take place on Sunday, can be streamed here.