The United Nations (UN) World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) is annually observed across the globe on 2 April to raise awareness about Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promote the realisation of human rights and basic freedoms for autistic individuals on an equal basis with others.
- 2 April 2024 marks the observance of the 17th annual World Autism Awareness Day.
WAAD 2024 event was organised by the United Nations Department of Global Communications (DGC), in collaboration with the Switzerland-based Institute of Neurodiversity (ION).
Note: ION is a neurominority-founded and led, volunteer-run inclusive global membership organization.
Global Overview of WAAD 2024:
i.As a part of WAAD 2024, a virtual event on “Moving from Surviving to Thriving: Autistic individuals share regional perspectives” was conducted on 2nd April 2024.
ii.The 2024 World Autism Awareness Day Observance for the 1st time focuses on the global perspective of autistic individuals.
iii.The event was co-sponsored by the Permanent Missions of Italy and Poland to the UN, with support provided by the Group for Autism, Insurance, Investment and Neurodiversity (GAIN).
Autism Awareness Ribbon:
i.In 1999, the puzzle ribbon was adopted as the universal sign of autism. A Puzzle Ribbon is to promote Autism and Aspergers Awareness.
ii.The ribbon is made up of a puzzle piece in bright colours such as red, yellow, and blue.
iii.The puzzle pattern of this ribbon reflects the mystery and complexity of autism.
iv.The colours of the ribbon represent the diversity of the autism spectrum and the hope for a brighter future for individuals with autism.
Background:
i.On 18 December 2007, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/62/139 and proclaimed the 2 April of every year as World Autism Awareness Day.
ii.The first-ever World Autism Awareness Day was observed on 2 April 2008.
Significance:
i.WAAD is a day dedicated to raising awareness about autism and improving the quality of life for those affected.
ii.WAAD aims to integrate individuals with autism into all aspects of society, promoting understanding and acceptance.
Promoting Inclusion and Rights:
i.The UN has a longstanding commitment to diversity and the rights of persons with disabilities (including learning differences and developmental disabilities).
ii.The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, effective since 2008, emphasises universal human rights.
iii.Its goal is to ensure equal enjoyment of rights and freedoms for all individuals, irrespective of disabilities.
Fostering Inclusivity:
i.The Convention aims to foster inclusivity and respect for the inherent dignity of persons with disabilities.
ii.It plays a crucial role in creating a society where individuals with autism can lead fulfilling lives.
Autism:
i.Autism, or ASD is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests in early childhood, regardless of gender and race.
ii.Autism refers to a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech, and nonverbal communication.
About United Nations (UN):
Secretary-General– António Guterres
Headquarters– New York, USA
Established in– 1945
