OHRC highlights rights of people with autism
The participants agreed to support studies on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), unify related strategies among national human rights institutions, expand partnerships between national institutions and civil society and provide training for autistic children
The Oman Human Rights Commission (OHRC), in association with the Asia Pacific Forum, organised a symposium titled “Respect and support for rights of people with autism from the perspective of national human rights institutions” on Wednesday via videoconferencing.
Dr Rashid bin Hamad al Balushi, Chairman of OHRC, said that the symposium constituted a link in a series of events organised by the OHRC as part of its cooperation with regional and international organisations.
He added that such activities affirm OHRC’S keenness to shoulder its responsibilities in protecting and consolidating human rights, in line with provisions of the Basic Law of the State and international charters and agreements.
The participants agreed to support studies on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), unify related strategies among national human rights institutions, expand partnerships between national institutions and civil society and provide training for autistic children and their families.
Other measures agreed by the participants include developing special programmes for people with autism, supporting public and private initiatives related to autism, reviewing ASD laws and agreements to include this segment and spreading awareness about ASD among members of society.
The event attracted the participation of numerous national human rights institutions (NHRIS) and regional networks within the Global Alliance, alongside a cadre of specialists, researchers and representatives of the civil society from inside and outside Oman.
Maryam bint Abdullah al Attiyah, GANHRI Chairperson, in her speech said, “The escalating indicators of autism spectrum disorders have spurred governments to enhance their endeavours in early autism detection, particularly as many nations are signatories to the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).”
She further remarked, “Autism spectrum disorder stands as one of the priorities in the GANHRI and OHCHR programmes. The role of NHRIS encompasses bolstering policies aimed at legislative advancement, and advocating for and aiding the most vulnerable segments of society.”
Kairn Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Asia Pacific Forum, delivered an address underscoring the imperative that individuals on the autism spectrum are entitled to equal rights as neurotypical individuals. He emphasised the role of NHRIS in safeguarding these rights, emphasising the importance of understanding and surmounting the challenges encountered by individuals with autism.
In his address, Dr Rashid bin Hamad al Balushi, OHRC Chairman, underscored that the symposium’s organisation aligns with the OHRC mandate as outlined in its system. This includes engaging with international human rights mechanisms, participating in regional and international human rights gatherings, and organising conferences, workshops and seminars on human rights matters. The OHRC aims at advancing and protecting human rights in accordance with the Basic Law of the State and international treaties and conventions.
He further highlighted that this seminar falls within the purview of the OHRC adherence to the competencies and responsibilities stipulated in the Paris Principles, encompassing collaboration with human rights institutions, particularly regional institutions and other national institutions dedicated to advancing and protecting human rights. This collaboration entails aiding in the formulation of human rights programmes and research, contributing to their implementation, and enhancing societal awareness regarding diverse human rights issues and subjects.