We call upon policymakers in Iraq and Kurdistan to focus on the growing needs of individuals diagnosed to be on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and to provide data-driven strategies that will enable those living with autism to reach their potential. More than 3,000 people are believed to be on the spectrum in Kurdistan Region, but no statistics are available in Iraq on ASD.
There are cost-effective solutions that could be pursued for children and adults with autism, which will fundamentally transform the quality of living for the individuals and their immediate families. It is an undeniable fact that Iraq and Kurdistan face growing economic and security challenges, but this does not mean neglecting areas where developmental steps can be taken.
The ministries of both education and health should consider working together to develop an autism strategy. This will give both Baghdad and Erbil common grounds where both sides can benefit mutually. Early intensive behavioural interventions will fundamentally improve and help children with autism.
Autism is a neurological condition affecting the brain. When a child is younger, the brain has much more plasticity (ability to change) and so changing or teaching new behaviour is much easier.
Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention – Child Autism UK
An online directory would help families and reduces the risk of them visiting local Imams, following superstitious rituals or even opting for herbal remedies. This cost-effective measure could include practical steps and provide information on screening, diagnosis, local psychologists, speech therapists, and a host of other vital information.
The following includes examples of what an online directory could include, but ideally consulting with families of ASD would help formulate policies that will have a positive and substantial impact.
- Guidance on clinics that provide diagnosis locally
- Early intervention strategies, explaining clearly the autism spectrum disorder
- Information packages for parents and families to read
- Training courses for educators
- Establishing parent to parent support groups
The United Kingdom has multiple packages available for children with autism such as the early bird programme, developed by the national autistic society. This programme is three-months long but helps support parents and empowers them to facilitate their child’s social communication, teaches them useful strategies and techniques that can be adopted on a daily basis.
These programmes can easily be adopted in Iraq and Kurdistan to ensure those who are most vulnerable in society receive the help needed. If all developmental steps are ignored because of the economic and security concerns in the country, progress would be halted, and the prospect of an inclusive country will never materialise.
Hope Autism Society 