ALUT – The Israeli Society for Autistic Children was awarded status as an advisory nongovernmental organization to the UN, it was announced on Monday. The Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations of the UN, a standing committee of the Economic and Social Council, comprised of 19 countries, including the US, China, Russia, Turkey, Cuba and Pakistan, recommended the acceptance of ALUT without objection. Ambassador Ron Prosor, Israel's permanent representative to the United Nations, said: “The Israeli delegation to the UN promotes activities across numerous social areas that concern the entire international community. We are proud to promote, year after year, global awareness on the issue of disabilities in general and autism in particular. ALUT is doing exceptional work at the UN and we are happy every time for this welcome cooperation that presents to the UN an additional side of Israeli qualities.” Status as an advisory organization will grant ALUT the opportunity to enhance its influence around the world through access to UN committees such as the Council for Human Rights, Status of Women Committee and the Charter for Disabilities, as well as spread its message to all member states and permanent representatives during relevant UN discussions. Einat Cassuto-Shefi, director-general of ALUT, said: “It is very important that the treatment of autism is on the table at the United Nations. It is a great honor to be chosen as a UN advisory organization on an issue that worries millions of families around the world.” Cassuto-Shefi added that ALUT is a reputable professional organization with over 40 years of knowledge and experience in providing care plans, construction and operation of facilities and systems supporting families of children with autism. ALUT and the Israeli delegation to the UN plan to open an exhibit on Tuesday at the UN office in New York of drawings and paintings created by Israeli artists with autism.
