World Health Assembly Adopts Resolution on Autism
Today the World Health Assembly adopted a formal resolution making autism a global health priority. The assembly is the governing body of the World Health Organization (WHO). As such, the resolution brings a formal commitment by member states of the United Nations.
Autism Speaks’ Andy Shih announced the good news of the WHO resolution on autism this morning at the meeting of the Autism Speaks Global Advocacy Leadership Network.Andy Shih, Autism Speaks senior vice president for scientific affairs announced the good news this morning at the second annual meeting of Autism Speaks Advocacy Leadership Network, in New York City. (More about this year’s meeting here.) Dr. Shih heads Autism Speaks Global Autism Public Health initiative.
“The World Health Assembly, comprised of health ministers from around the world, adopted a new autism developmental disabilities resolution early this morning,” said Shih. “This historic resolution firmly establishes autism as a global public health priority and provide stakeholders everywhere a powerful new advocacy tool.”
The resolution was co-sponsored by more than 50 countries and supported by all members, including the U.S. It sets out a clear set of actions to be undertaken by WHO member nations to support individuals, families and communities affected by them.
Read the full resolution – “Comprehensive and Coordinated Efforts for the Management of Autism Spectrum Disorders” – here. Listen to Dr. Shih’s call to action at the WHO’s first conference on autism last year.
For the original article published on Autism Speaks website, see the link below:
Together, we can unlock your child’s potential
Related News
03/10/2026
What is Verbal Behavior Therapy?
Verbal Behavior Therapy is a vital tool for helping those with autism improve their communication skills. Learn more about this approach to teaching communication and the benefits it offers children with autism. Understanding VBT and Its Impact Communication is the foundation of human interaction, enabling us to connect, share ideas, resolve conflicts, and collaborate with others in […]
03/10/2026
What Is a Co-Treatment Therapy Session?
Explore co-treatment with ABA therapy with speech support for comprehensive care, improved communication, and effective outcomes in children. What Is a Co-Treatment Session and How Does It Benefit Your Child? ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy programs are designed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and implemented by a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) to address behavior-related goals in autistic children. […]
03/10/2026
Safety & Autism Centers
Safety & Autism Centers: How LAC Prioritizes Safety As a parent, trusting anyone with the safety of your child is a big ask, even more so when you know that your child sees, feels, and experiences the world differently. At Lighthouse Autism Center, we understand that safety means more than locked doors or clean playrooms. […]
