Parliament yesterday accepted a request for a discussion on evaluating and clarifying the government’s policies, programmes and initiatives related to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the kingdom.
The discussion, led by 10 MPs led by Hassan Ibrahim Hassan, will be now scheduled for a future session.
It aims to examine the mechanisms for improving health, social and educational services for individuals with autism in Bahrain.
It also calls for a review of integration strategies to better include this group in all aspects of society.
“Families of individuals with autism are facing serious gaps in diagnosis, therapy, education and financial support,” said Mr Hassan.
“Our goal is to shine a light on these gaps and work jointly with the government to create real, lasting solutions.”
He added that the discussion will also seek accountability on previously announced initiatives and the status of the upcoming Comprehensive Disability Complex, which is expected to play a central role in supporting people with autism.
The discussion will be structured around three core areas:
1. Health Services and Diagnostic Mechanisms:
Current statistics on autism prevalent in Bahrain.
Diagnostic procedures and classification systems.
Challenges in identifying autism early, and the absence of classification in national ID systems.
Availability of early intervention programmes in primary healthcare centres.
2. Social Development Programmes
Disability allowance policies, eligibility criteria and coverage.
Monitoring and evaluation of rehabilitation centres.
Plans to increase government-run specialised centres.
Readiness of the Comprehensive Disability Complex to support those with autism.
3. Educational Integration and Support
Number of government schools serving students with autism.
Availability of specialised classes and plans for expansion.
Qualifications and training of educational staff.
Existence of dedicated curricula and inclusion mechanisms.
Collaboration between the ministries of Education and Health for in-school support.
The date for the parliamentary discussion will be announced in an upcoming session.
The debate is expected to involve senior officials from the ministries of Health, Social Development and Education.
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