May 15th, 2025
During Disability Awareness Week, Tohum Autism Foundation Calls for Equal Rights: “Different Development, Equal Rights”
On the occasion of Disability Week (May 10–16), the Tohum Autism Foundation emphasized that children with autism and other developmental differences must have equal access to fundamental rights, just like every other child. The Foundation reminded that the rights of children to an adequate standard of living, quality and inclusive education, play, and a life free from discrimination are protected not only by international conventions but also by the Constitution of the Republic of Türkiye and relevant national legislation.
Tohum Autism Foundation stressed the importance of fully implementing these rights in practice, noting that not only physical barriers but also societal prejudices limit children’s development and social participation. The Foundation called for inclusive education policies, accessible public spaces, and a rights-based approach to eliminate the invisible barriers faced by children with autism and other developmental differences.
Attorney Dr. Jülide Işıl Bağatur, a member of the Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board and an expert in child and disability rights, made the following striking statements:
“Providing an appropriate environment for a child with developmental differences is not a favor; it is a shared responsibility of the state and society. A rights-based approach must be at the core of all practices concerning children.”
“Play is not a luxury but a fundamental need in a child’s development. Children with autism or other developmental differences should not be excluded from social life and play areas; they must be supported with equal opportunities.”
“No child should be deprived of their rights simply because they develop differently. There is no excuse for discrimination.”
Tohum Autism Foundation calls on society, policymakers, and all institutions to take action for inclusive and accessible solutions in all areas — from education to play, from healthcare to social life.
