Akis Skertsos: 6 Policies + 4 Priorities for Individuals with Autism

On World Autism Awareness Day (April 2, 2025), Minister of Governance Akis Skertsos made an extensive post after spending an hour with “the wonderful Charis (and his amazing mom),” as he mentioned. Analytically, Skertsos stated: “April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, is not merely symbolic. It’s a reminder of our responsibility—to implement policies that don’t turn a blind eye, to design universally inclusive strategies that go beyond paperwork and reach those in need.” These policies were discussed with Charis, a young person with autism, aiming to expand good practices. The minister emphasized listening to firsthand experiences to better understand the needs of individuals with autism. Skertsos explained that they aim for comprehensive planning that doesn’t focus solely on certain disabilities but addresses the silent normalcy of those who have been marginalized for years. Their goal is to ensure everyone, regardless of neurotype, has access to knowledge, work, and life. He recalled a mother of a child with autism saying a year ago: “We don’t ask for miracles. We ask to be seen, heard, and not forgotten when public attention fades.” He promised not to forget. Skertsos then outlined six implemented policies over the past year: forming a specialized autism committee, increasing funding by €24 million for Centers of Respite and Daily Care, launching an early intervention program for children aged 0–6 with developmental delays or disorders, boosting financial support for students with disabled siblings, securing monthly compensation of €1,850 for professional foster parents of disabled children, and strengthening interdisciplinary evaluation, advisory, and support centers. Additionally, 1,100 permanent positions for psychologists and social workers were created. For the upcoming year, four priorities include creating guides for parents of autistic children, implementing short-term respite care, establishing low-sensory spaces, and applying methods for vocational training and supported employment for individuals with autism. Skertsos concluded that autism is a profound and complex reality faced by thousands of families in Greece, requiring scientific knowledge, practical policies, and continuous care—not panic or blame. They strive for a future where every person with a disability can be visible, present in schools, communities, and society without needing justification. Only then will they have achieved what is self-evident—a Greece for all, by all.