site.btaExperts Say Support for Children with Autism Requires Cross-Sector Policies

Support for children and young people on the autism spectrum requires coordinated institutional action and the development of cross-sector policies, participants in the national conference "Cross-Sector Cooperation in Support of Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders" agreed. The event was organized by the association "Autism Today".

Institutional representatives and experts discussed better integration for children with developmental difficulties and pledged stronger support for their families.

In a congratulatory address, Vice President Iliana Iotova emphasized that people with autism are essential to society’s development and, in many cases, are its driving force. She noted that an increasing number of public figures with autism are changing attitudes by proving that people on the spectrum can achieve remarkable success and contribute unique perspectives. Changing social attitudes, she said, is an important step toward an ongoing national dialogue, which should not be limited to symbolic campaigns or specific dates.

Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Policy Rumyana Petkova said her Ministry is investing in improving the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families, developing social services, and supporting early diagnosis and intervention. "Only through combined efforts between education, healthcare, social services, and civil society can we ensure comprehensive care and equal opportunities for every child," she stressed in her address.

Education Ministry expert Stela Ivanova confirmed that efforts continue to facilitate adaptation and inclusion for children on the autism spectrum.

Gabriel Valkov, Chair of Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, affirmed that issues concerning children and young people remain a legislative priority.

MP Yordanka Fandakova noted that "change comes slowly, especially in attitudes", and said it was important for public figures to stand with organizations raising awareness about autism. She pointed out that Parliament has approved at first reading amendments to the Preschool and School Education Act to promote the inclusion of children with special educational needs, ensuring better cooperation between schools and social services.

Ombudsman representative Maya Vasileva said parents of children with disabilities have high expectations for those responsible for improving their quality of life. A message from Ombudsman Vladislava Delcheva emphasized the importance of uniting institutions, academia, professionals, and parents to build effective and sustainable solutions.

Ivayla Kassarova, Deputy Chair of the State Agency for Child Protection, noted that while inter-institutional cooperation has improved over the years, it still requires greater consistency.

Zornitsa Roussinova, Chair of the Economic and Social Council, said more people now understand the need to work together so that children with autism can live with peace and security. She stressed that the expertise of teachers, social workers, and healthcare professionals is key in guiding institutional policy.

UNICEF Bulgaria representative Christina de Bruin recalled that Bulgaria was one of the first countries to adopt the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. "We must ensure that no child is left behind – including those on the autism spectrum," she said, adding that UNICEF continues to support the government at both national and regional levels.

Georgi Bogdanov of the National Network for Children underlined the importance of cross-sector cooperation, noting that "parents of children with autism were among the first civic activists to begin this major change."

Actor Elena Petrova and TV host Niki Kunchev also voiced their support for the cause.