Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and GAAC to Establish Autism Centers in Central Asia

Establishing a Regional Autism Hub in Central Asia

The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has taken a significant step in advancing autism awareness and support by becoming a regional partner of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC). This partnership will lead to the establishment of a new coordination center focused on autism initiatives across Central Asia and the South Caucasus. This initiative aims to aggregate expertise and resources from international and regional organizations to provide comprehensive support for individuals affected by autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Vision and Objectives

The primary goal of this regional hub is to adapt and implement international best practices in a manner that is sensitive to the unique needs of each country in the region. This initiative will convene specialists, relevant organizations, and governmental representatives to facilitate a robust exchange of expertise and promote broader access to evidence-based approaches, research, and data.

Founded in 2025 at the United Nations headquarters in New York, the GAAC includes key players in the field, such as the Qatar Foundation, Autism Speaks, the World Health Organization, and UNICEF. The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation is proud to have been a founding member of this Coalition. The formation of this regional hub marks an important milestone in the collaboration between the Foundation and the GAAC, further advancing the Coalition's initiatives.

During a presentation at the UN General Assembly in September 2026, Almaz Sharman, Chair of the Board at the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, revealed the GAAC’s regional model for Central Asia and the South Caucasus. He underscored the importance of not just having proven solutions but also ensuring that conditions are in place for these solutions to be adapted and implemented according to each region's national contexts.

Building on Experience

This ambitious project will leverage the extensive experience that the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has gained through its Autism program. Under the initiative titled "One World for All," the Foundation has established 13 specialized autism centers known as “Asyl Miras” across 12 cities in Kazakhstan, providing vital support to over 17,500 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. This program focuses on developing diagnostic and early intervention tools, training specialists, and creating new support models.

The success gained in Kazakhstan offers a valuable framework for autism support and dialogue on international platforms. Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, highlighted the significant amount of practical experience Kazakhstan has gathered in supporting autistic children and their families, largely credited to the specialists in the Asyl Miras centers. Karbozova emphasized that it is crucial for the insights gained in Kazakhstan to contribute to the global conversation surrounding autism.

In conclusion, the establishment of this center represents a critical advancement in providing tailored support for those affected by autism across Central Asia and the South Caucasus, while also fostering international collaboration to enhance autism care and awareness.

By connecting local expertise with global best practices, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and the GAAC aim to create inclusive environments for individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring they receive the support necessary to thrive.