(VOVworld) – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on the world community to respect the equal right to autistic people and create conditions for them to play an active role in the society.

A picture painted by autistic children (Photo: unric.org)

In a message on World Autism Awareness Day on Sunday, Mr. Guterres said these citizens hold inherent rights just like other members of society, including equal recognition before the law. He said when persons with autism enjoy self-determination and autonomy, they will be empowered to make a positive impact on the common future.

Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood. It consists of a range of conditions characterized by some degree of impaired social behavior, communication and language.