Brazil to showcase pioneering autism-focused sports programme at United Nations conference

Brazil’s Ministry of Sport is set to present the new programme at the 17th Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This marks the first time Brazil will introduce this internationally unprecedented initiative on a UN platform, as reported by the official website of Brazil's Ministry of Sport.

The initiative is specifically designed to promote social inclusion through sport for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Implemented by the Ministry’s National Secretariat for Parasport, the programme integrates physical activity, recreation, and social engagement as tools to support global development and improve the quality of life for people with autism.

The announcement comes as one of the subthemes of this year’s UN conference focuses on innovative ways to promote programmes for persons with disabilities – precisely the context in which the initiative is positioned as a model of inclusive and results-driven policy.

According to Brazil's Minister of Sport, Andre Fufuca, the programme has delivered measurable progress in the areas it operates, particularly in the socialisation and behavioural development of children with disorders.

As of 2025, the initiative supports 2,400 direct beneficiaries across 11 centres in Brazil’s Northeast region. Most of these centres operate in partnership with regional institutions and civil society organisations. The project stands out for its use of public financing through Brazil’s Sports Incentive Law, providing a replicable and sustainable model for other nations.

In addition to presenting the programme, the Ministry of Sport will also highlight its institutional cooperation with the Public Labour Prosecution Service, illustrating how inter-agency collaboration can strengthen inclusion-orientated initiatives, the source claimed.

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