Podgorica, (MINA) - Institutional protection of persons with autism must be stronger, more coordinated and more accessible, while the healthcare, education and social system need to be better connected, said Human Rights and Freedoms Protector of Montenegro, Sinisa Bjekovic.

Speaking at the conference in the Parliament, marking April 2, the World Autism Day, he focused on the rights of children with autism, stating that these children and their families continue to fight challenges on daily basis that often remain invisible.

Bjekovic pointed out that support is crucial and should include early intervention, experts in the fields of speech therapy, psychology and defectology, a structured routine and an individual approach to learning.

“Institutional protection must be stronger, more coordinated and more accessible, and the healthcare, education and social systems better connected. Clear standards, responsibility and continuous monitoring of the implementation of policies are needed, because rights that are not realized are not rights”, added Bjekovic.

He emphasized that inclusive education helps not only children with autism, but also their peers, encouraging empathy, tolerance and mutual respect.

Minister of Social Care, Family Care and Demography Damir Gutic said that inclusion requires a coordinated, multisectoral and long-term approach, which places families and people with autism at the center of social protection.

He announced the introduction of inclusive benefits for people with disabilities, as well as an integrated approach to services, including intensive family support and temporary institutional care for children and adults with disabilities.

Gutic added that in the coming year at least three services will be established in each local community in accordance with the needs of users, stressing that continuous and coordinated work is a priority of the Ministry.

Parliament Speaker Andrija Mandic said that the World Autism Day is a call for action, concrete steps, measures and results that will change people’s lives for the better.