The “Not Invisible” campaign continues! Since its launch in April 2024, autistic people and their families across Europe have shared their stories, making visible the barriers and challenges that too often go unrecognised, but also their talents, hopes and connections.
In 2026, our campaign is taking the next step. By ensuring that autistic people and their families have a platform to express their views, concerns and aspirations in their own words and formats, and influence European decision-making. It is particularly timely as the European Commission prepares to the second phase of the Strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities 2021-2030.
From stories to policy change
Real inclusion requires change. That’s why Autism-Europe has written a manifesto setting out its priorities for the next phase of the European Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, a direct call to action for decision-makers.
At the heart of our demands is a simple principle: autistic people must be part of the political conversation. Together with our member organisations across 40 countries, we are calling for:
- Compulsory autism and disability-rights training for professionals across education, healthcare, employment and all public services,
- Investment in community-based, person-centred support that enables autistic people to live independently according to their choices and preferences,
- A transition from guardianship regimes to supported decision-making systems that respect every person’s autonomy,
- Mutual recognition of autism diagnoses and harmonised disability assessments across EU Member States, so that freedom of movement is a reality for autistic people and their families,
- Inclusive education and meaningful employment measures to address the barriers autistic people face at every stage of life,
- Genuine enforcement of cognitive, sensory and communication accessibility, not just physical access,
- Meaningful involvement of autistic people and their organisations in policy design, research and monitoring at European, national and regional levels
A call to action for policy-makers
We encourage you to reach out to your policy-makers at European, national, regional and local levels, and to support the campaign by sharing our manifesto and the stories of the autism community. True change can only come when everyone is given a voice.
Would you like to send your story? We would be delighted to receive it. Please send your materials to communication@autismeurope.org