Global autism effort led by Qatar and partners expands reach and advances inclusion-focused initiatives
<p>Doha, Qatar: A global alliance founded by Qatar Foundation, Autism Speaks, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Social Development and Family, with support from the World Health Organization, to unite the world in advancing support for people with autism everywhere is expanding its international reach – and pinpointing a series of flagship initiatives that are designed to close crucial gaps in autism…
Doha, Qatar has seen the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC) expand its international reach and launch key initiatives to advance inclusion for people with autism. Founded by Qatar Foundation, Autism Speaks, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Social Development and Family, the coalition now includes the Education Above All Foundation, Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, and the Autism Impact Fund, bringing expertise in financing, philanthropy, education, and system transformation.
The GAAC's focus on Qatar aligns with national priorities through partnerships with the Ministry of Social Development and Family and the Ministry of Public Health, which handles early screening, diagnosis, and clinical services. The World Health Organization and UNICEF provide strategic advice and contribute to the coalition's efforts.
The coalition's regional approach includes hubs in the Middle East and North Africa, North America, and Central Asia & South Caucasus, with Qatar Foundation leading the Middle East hub, Autism Speaks managing North American efforts, and the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation piloting the model in Central Asia & South Caucasus.
The GAAC's portfolio of initiatives addresses critical gaps in global autism systems, including a global index measuring autism progress, a shared data platform, a laboratory for affordable technologies, governance for people with autism, and building care systems and the workforce for full-lifespan services. With one in every 127 people on the autism spectrum, the GAAC aims to bring together governments, organizations, researchers, innovators, and individuals with lived experience to collaborate on evidence-based solutions and advance autism inclusivity.
Written by urgent.news from The Peninsula Qatar's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
