At the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Qatar, alongside international partners, announced the launch of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC) — a landmark initiative designed to move beyond awareness and drive collective, action-oriented solutions for autism worldwide.

The coalition, led by the State of Qatar with Qatar Foundation (QF), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and Autism Speaks, aims to establish autism as a global priority through coordinated policy, advocacy, research, and inclusive strategies.

Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, welcomed the launch, emphasizing the need for governments and stakeholders to commit resources and practical measures“This milestone shifts our efforts beyond awareness to collective action. The GAAC ensures autism becomes an international priority and reflects Qatar’s belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive.”

With an estimated 80 million people worldwide on the autism spectrum, the GAAC calls on governments, NGOs, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector to join efforts in addressing early diagnosis, inclusive education, adult services, employment, and community integration.

Qatar’s long-standing leadership in autism advocacy — including initiating World Autism Awareness Day in 2007 and launching its National Autism Strategy in 2017 — has positioned the nation as a global pioneer. The new coalition builds on this foundation to foster cross-border collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing.

Minister of Public Health, Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad Al Mahmoud, described the GAAC as “a beacon of what can be achieved when nations unite for good,” while Minister of Social Development and Family, H E Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, highlighted the role of innovation in ensuring inclusive opportunities for individuals with autism.

Through the GAAC, Qatar and its partners seek to transform decades of advocacy into tangible solutions that improve the lives, dignity, and opportunities of people with autism worldwide.

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