The United Nations General Assembly observed World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, 2018. The discussion focused on issues women and girls with disabilities face. Girls with disabilities have a lower graduation rates and are more susceptible to being marginalized or denied access to education. As women are reported to experience more physical, psychological, and sexual violence than men, women with disabilities are reported to experience these abuses coupled with discrimination based on gender and disability.

The 2018 World Autism Awareness Day discussion was held at the United Nations Headquarters. Attendees included experts and advocates of women’s rights. The agenda prioritized implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities(CRPD).

Key points included obstacles and opportunities in matters concerning marriage, family, and parenting as highlighted in the 23^rd Article of the CRDP and the Sustainable Development Goals of 2015.