State Minister Shama Obaed Islam, Bangladesh’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, told delegates at a United Nations‑hosted gathering on 25 September that Bangladesh is committed to ensuring persons with autism and disabilities are not merely recipients of support but active participants in education, employment, economic life and society.
The remarks were made during the high‑level event titled “Accelerating Global Action on Autism: The Global Autism Advocacy Coalition from Commitment to Implementation,” held at UN Headquarters on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.
In her speech, the State Minister highlighted the initiative’s focus on strengthening national systems, deploying evidence‑based solutions, expanding workforce development, and fostering innovation and investment to advance autism inclusion and support.
She stressed that international cooperation should bolster sustainable national capacity, ensuring that persons with autism have access to appropriate opportunities and can contribute fully to society.
The event was organized by Qatar, Qatar Foundation, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and Autism Speaks, drawing ministers and high‑level representatives from several countries to discuss coordinated action on autism worldwide.
Bangladesh’s participation underscores its broader commitment to disability inclusion and aligns with the foreign ministry’s emphasis on multilateral engagement to address social challenges.
The State Minister concluded by urging continued collaboration among UN member states, NGOs and private sector partners to translate commitments into concrete programs that benefit autistic individuals globally.
Why it matters
Bangladesh’s high‑level advocacy at the UN highlights the country’s leadership in promoting autism inclusion and mobilising international support for disability rights.