Qatar hosts event on accelerating Global Action on Autism

New York, USA: Qatar hosted an important meeting focused on speeding up global action on autism, alongside representatives from Tanzania, Bangladesh, Georgia, Qatar Foundation, UNICEF, the International Labour Organization, Autism Speaks, Education Above All, the Autism Impact Fund, and the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation.

The gathering took place during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Qatar's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, underscored the significance of commemorating the one-year anniversary of the Global Autism Advocacy Alliance. Established by Qatar Foundation in partnership with Autism Speaks, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Social Development and Family, the Alliance is rooted in the vision of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who passionately advocates for the dignity, rights, and inclusion of individuals with autism and their families.

Sheikha Alya emphasized that Qatar's endeavors, both domestically and internationally, are guided by this vision to bolster the rights and inclusion of those with autism, bolster support for their families, and guarantee no one is left behind. The Qatar Foundation, under HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser's leadership, is instrumental in turning this vision into reality through innovative programs and services catering to the diverse needs of individuals with autism, from early diagnosis and healthcare to education, employment, and social integration.

Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Public Health Affairs, expressed gratitude to the partners supporting the Global Autism Alliance. She highlighted the dual challenge of developing effective interventions and ensuring their equitable, sustainable, and widespread delivery, especially in resource-poor settings.

Dr. Al Kuwari stressed the initiatives within the alliance's framework to enhance workforce capabilities, leverage technology, foster knowledge sharing, and involve individuals with autism and their families in decision-making processes.

Fahad bin Hamad Al Sulaiti, Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development, emphasized inclusion as a core component of the Fund's objectives. He stressed the importance of collaboration among government bodies, researchers, service providers, and investors to develop evidence-based, impactful, and financially sustainable solutions.

The next steps involve focusing on four key areas: mobilizing capital and enhancing public-private partnerships; building national capacities; harnessing technology and AI for autism services and education; and reinforcing policies for program sustainability and effectiveness.

Delegates from Tanzania, Poland, Georgia, and Bangladesh joined the discussion, stressing the transition from commitments to action, strengthening healthcare systems, providing specialized support for individuals with autism and their families, and ensuring equitable access to services. They reviewed national strategies for early detection, intervention, workforce development, rehabilitation, and community support, while ensuring the active participation of individuals with autism in policy-making.

They stressed the importance of building national capacities, improving data collection, leveraging technology, and strengthening international cooperation to develop practical solutions.