National Legislations on Inclusive Education and Special Educational Needs of People with Autism in the Perspective of Article 24 of the CRPD

Education is vital not only in itself, but also for participating in all areas of social activity People with autism have often suffered and, in some parts of the world, are still suffering from a pervasive denial of the right to education because of their special needs. The goal of inclusive education is to fulfill the right to education by adapting education to the needs of persons with disabilities, as established by Article 24 of the CRPD. Realizing inclusive education is high on the agenda of EU Member States, though the policy is approached from differing perspectives and many challenges remain reflecting gaps in implementation of the law. The chapter is part of a book containing the results of the European Project "Promoting Equal Rights for People with Autism in the Field of Employment and Education" (JUST/2013/PROG/AG/5004/NGOS) co-funded by the PROGRESS Programme, aimed at supporting the implementation of the UN Convention in the fields of inclusive education and employment.