Bangladesh takes a stand for the rights and inclusion of children with autism at a UN event, urging collective action to ensure their well-being and societal integration.
Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, speaking at the observance of World Autism Awareness Day in New York, emphasized the need for heightened efforts to support children with autism, highlighting the alarming statistic that one in 100 individuals is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Joined by co-hosts including Ghana, Malaysia, Philippines, Qatar, and Zambia, Bangladesh spearheaded the event in collaboration with key civil society organizations, aiming to raise awareness and advocacy for children with developmental disabilities, particularly autism.
The event showcased an art and fashion exhibition, featuring the creative expressions of children with autism. Ambassador Muhith, alongside Ambassador Manuel L Lagdameo of the Philippines, ceremonially inaugurated the exhibition.
Bangladesh underscored the significance of accelerating awareness and action to address the challenges faced by children with autism and their families, particularly amid the global rise in autism prevalence.
Highlighting the 2011 Dhaka Declaration on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities, Bangladesh emphasized the progress made in raising awareness and fostering inclusion, particularly in the South-East Asia region, which accounts for a significant portion of global developmental disability prevalence.
Acknowledging the role of dedicated advocates and policy-makers, Bangladesh stressed the need for universal access to healthcare, support, and inclusive environments for children with developmental disabilities, particularly in developing countries.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging increased cooperation and investment in education, social inclusion, and quality healthcare services for children with autism.
The Art and Fashion exhibition witnessed a significant turnout, with diplomats, self-advocates, parent advocates, civil society organizations, and artists with developmental disabilities coming together to support the cause of inclusion and empowerment for children with autism.
