UN chief calls for greater efforts to help people with autism lead full lives

Source: Xinhua | 04-03-2009 08:48

UNITED NATIONS, April 2 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday called for intensifying global efforts to ensure that the estimated 67 million people worldwide with autism can benefit from the supportive environment they need to reach their full potential and contribute to society.

In a message marking World Autism Awareness Day, which falls on Thursday, Ban said the growing international chorus of voices calling for action to enable children and persons with autism to lead full and meaningful lives.

"This is not a far-off dream; it is a reality that can be attained by promoting positive perceptions about autism, as well as a greater social understanding of this growing challenge," he said.

On December 18, 2007, the General Assembly designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day in order to galvanize global efforts to promote greater understanding about the disorder which affects tens of millions around the globe.

This year's observance is being marked with lectures, briefings, screenings, musical performances, video conferences, art installations and other activities carried out by the UN family and its partners.

Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by varying degrees of impairment in communication skills and social interactions and in restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. The condition causes disabilities that can be lifelong. Emerging evidence indicates that early intervention results in improved outcomes. 　

Editor:Shi Taoyang