KRG establishes new protocols at airports to accommodate travelers with autism

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Transport and Communications issued a decree on Thursday to establish new protocols in the autonomous region’s airport to accommodate travelers who have autism. 

In the absence of a designated lane, people with autism spectrum disorder and their families are now allowed to use the “business class” queues to avoid any crowded spaces at the airports that could exacerbate their condition, read a decree signed by Minister Ano Jawhar. 

Moreover, the facilitation would also be extended to the passport control sections of the airports. 

The new protocol was established in line with the general guidelines of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Ninth Cabinet, which prioritizes providing a dignified life for citizens with special needs, the ministry said.

Having benefited from the recommendations of Hope Autism Society – a non-governmental organization – the ministry described the accommodation as a “patriotic and humanitarian duty”. 

“Kurdistan’s people, & our guests deserve the best always, especially those (who) need special treatment,” he tweed.

In May 2021, the United Arab Emirates inaugurated a 2,500-square meter center in capital Erbil to provide critical support to people with autism. The facility is free-of-charge and was funded by the Gulf country’s Red Crescent. 

Read More: UAE-funded autism center inaugurated in Erbil

At least 3,000 people with autism live in the Kurdistan Region, according to the Hope Autism Society.