BENGALURU: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an umbrella term for a group of developmental disorders, which include ‘a spectrum’ or range of neurological conditions, which manifests during early childhood.
Some individuals with ASD experience mild disability while others could be severely disabled. ASD is often misdiagnosed as mental retardation or schizophrenia; but early intervention, rehabilitation, appropriate support and reasonable accommodation allow those on the Spectrum to enjoy equal opportunity, and participation in society.
Autism is characterized by its distinctive social interactions, unconventional ways of learning, dedicated interests in specific subjects, inclination to routines, challenges in typical communications and particular ways of processing sensory information.
The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and the lack of understanding has a tremendous impact on the individuals, their families and communities. While 1 percent of the population in the USA and United Kingdom is said to have Autism, the rate of prevalence in low and middle income countries is less known.
Lack of awareness, stigmatization and discrimination remain obstacles for individuals with autism, and often get in the way of seeking diagnosis and rehabilitation.
In 2008, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (UNCRPD) came into force, to ensure the protection of the rights of persons with disability, assuring them a life of dignity and equal opportunity based on the fundamental principle of universal human rights. The UNCRPD is the only international convention which ensures that all individuals with autism are included in society and empowered to lead a meaningful life.
Since 2008, every year 2nd April is observed as World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nation. Several famous monuments and sites across the world are also lit up in blue to show support. The theme for this year is ’Toward Autonomy and Self-Determination.’ Certain abilities have often been see as a qualification for an individual to enjoy full personhood and exercise their legal capacity, creating a barrier for social inclusion. The right to self – determination and, legal capacity, thus become instrumental to build an inclusive society.
The United Nations in its ‘call to action’ has urged employers across the world ‘to commit to offering employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum’ and urges all stakeholders to work together.
António Guterres, the UN Secretary General, in his message for World Autism Awareness Day 2017 has written asking all individuals to ‘play a part in changing attitudes toward persons with autism and in recognizing their rights as citizens, who, like everyone else, are entitled to claim those rights and make decisions for their lives in accordance with their own will and preferences.’
Like everywhere else in the world, disability groups and organisations in India too observe this day by holding awareness programmes or events. For those who’d like to show support, wear blue or sport a blue ribbon and tell everyone about it!