World Autism Awareness Day "a call to action": UN chief

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon said on Tuesday that World Autism Awareness Day is "a call to action," urging all concerned to help build "a more inclusive world."

"World Autism Awareness Day is about more than generating understanding; it is a call to action," said Ban in his message for the Day, observed annually on April 2.

"I urge all concerned to take part in fostering progress by supporting education programs, employment opportunities and other measures that help realize our shared vision of a more inclusive world," he said.

In December 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day, in an effort to draw attention to a pervasive disorder that affects tens of millions around the globe.

Autism is characterized by varying degrees of impairment in communication skills and social interactions and by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior.

In his message, Ban stressed that, to measure the success of our societies, the world should examine how well those with different abilities, including persons with autism, are integrated as full and valued members.

"Education and employment are key," the UN chief stressed.

"Schools connect children to their communities. Jobs connect adults to their societies. Persons with autism deserve to walk the same path," he said. "By including children with different learning abilities in mainstream and specialized schools, we can change attitudes and promote respect. By creating suitable jobs for adults with autism, we integrate them into society."

The UN chief also noted that in many parts of the world, individuals with autism are denied their fundamental human rights and are battling discrimination and exclusion.

"Even in places where their rights are secured, too often they still have to fight for basic services," he said.

At this time of economic constraint, Ban said, governments should continue to invest in services that benefit persons with autism.

"When we empower them, we benefit current and future generations," he added.