World Autism Day

In 2008, The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day.

For many people on the autism spectrum, access to affordable assistive technologies is a prerequisite to being able to exercise their basic human rights and participate fully in the life of their communities, and thereby contribute to the realization of the SDGs. Assistive technology can reduce or eliminate the barriers to their participation on an equal basis with others.

The 2019 observance of the Day at UN Headquarters is organized by the UN Department of Global Communications and Department of Economic and Social Affairs, in close cooperation with persons with autism and their representative organizations.
In the context of the Secretary-General’s Strategy, the 2019 World Autism Awareness Day observance at UN Headquarters in New York will focus on leveraging the use of assistive technologies for persons with autism as a tool in removing the barriers to their full social, economic and political participation in society, and in promoting equality, equity and inclusion. Topics to be addressed through discussions with self-advocates and experts include:

-The Internet and digital communities: Leveling the playing field
-Independent living: Smart home technology and more
-Education and employment: Communication and executive functioning
-Telemedicine: Opening the doors to healthcare
-The right to be heard: Political participation and advocacy

-The United Nations