World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April is aimed at raising awareness about the condition. Every year on this day, thousands of iconic landmarks, skyscrapers, schools, businesses and homes across the world shine bright blue lights in honour of the millions of people affected by autism.

2016 Theme: “Autism and the 2030 Agenda: Inclusion and Neurodiversity”

The Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly resolution62/139. World Autism Awareness Day, passed in council on 1 November 2007 and adopted on 18 December 2007.

This resolution was passed and adopted without a vote in the UN General Assembly, mainly as a supplement to previous UN initiatives to improve human rights.

Autism spectrum disorder is a serious neuro-developmental disorder that impairs a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others. It also includes restricted repetitive behaviours, interests and activities. These issues cause significant impairment in social, occupational and other areas of functioning. It results from a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, mostly affecting children and adults in many countries irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status.

There’s no “cure” for ASD, but speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, educational support, plus a number of other interventions are available to help children and parents. About 70% of children with ASD have a non-verbal IQ below 70. Of these, 50% have a non-verbal IQ below 50. Overall, up to 50% of people with “severe learning difficulties” have an ASD.