Article about this event on the official website of G20 Brazil 2024: https://www.g20.org/pt-br/noticias/acontece-hoje-o-encontro-preparatorio-da-cupula-social-do-g20-no-rio-de-janeiro
Short official video summarizing the event:
Introduction
Invitation
We were invited to participate in a significant event of the “G20 Social” organized by Brazil. This event took place on 20/08/2024 no Rio de Janeiro, city chosen as the Capital do G20 2024 (https://g20.rio), for the same reasons that led us to establish Our Worldwide Operational Headquarters (https://Autistan.rio) Here in the same city huh 2017.
G20 Social Presentation
Or “G20 Social” is a concept introduced by Brazil to highlight social aspects, economic and environmental in the G20 discussions, complementing traditional debates centered on economic growth and financial stability. This concept aims to broaden the focus of the G20 discussions to include themes related to social development, reducing inequalities, to social inclusion, the improvement of living conditions and sustainable development.
Objectives and Themes of the G20 Social
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Social inclusion: Promote policies that encourage the inclusion of marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, ethnic minorities and women, in order to create fairer and more equitable societies.
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Reduction of Inequalities: Addressing income and wealth inequalities globally, developing strategies to reduce disparities between different layers of society.
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Sustainable development: Integrate the Sustainable Development Goals (ODS) in the G20 discussions, emphasizing the need to balance economic growth with environmental preservation and the promotion of social welfare.
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Social Protection Policies: Encourage the development and strengthening of social protection systems, such as universal health care, Retirement pensions, and programs to combat poverty, to ensure economic and social security for all.
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Education and Training: Promoting education and training initiatives that better prepare workers for the jobs of the future, especially in the context of the digital transition and automation.
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Impact and Importance of the G20 Social
By introducing the concept of “G20 Social”, Brazil seeks to expand the role of the G20 beyond strictly economic issues to address global social challenges. This reflects an understanding that economic development cannot be sustainable without social and inclusive progress. By making the “G20 Social” A central theme, Brazil encourages G20 members to adopt a more holistic approach to global development, recognizing the interdependence of economic dimensions, social and environmental.
Or “G20 Social” It also allows the inclusion of perspectives and experiences of emerging countries in the discussions, often faced with development challenges different from those of developed economies, thus contributing to a more balanced and representative dialogue at international level.
In summary, or “G20 Social” is an initiative to enrich the G20 discussions with a look at social development, inclusion, and sustainability, encouraging an integrated approach to global economic policies.
Program of the day
Morning
Beginning
The event took place at the facilities of the Fundição Progresso.
The Fundição Progresso is an emblematic cultural center located in the Lapa neighborhood, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Housed in an old foundry, This multifunctional space has become an important meeting point for the city's culture and arts.
Fundição Progresso is much more than a simple cultural center; It is a symbol of Brazilian diversity and creativity. She embodies the vibrant spirit of Rio de Janeiro as a city rich in culture and history, also serving as a platform for artistic expression and community engagement.
Video overview of the venue and the start of the event, including the presentation of ministers and other personalities:
Brazilian National Anthem
We had the great fortune to hear the National Anthem of Brazil, sung standing by the participants. It's indisputably a beautiful song, sublimated by beautiful video images. The lyrics reflect well the spirit of the Brazilian people, and his fervor was really palpable. It was a really emotional moment.
Full video of the speeches
This is the official video (governmental) of all the morning's talks:
Minister Márcio Macêdo
This is our video recording of the speech of the Minister of the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic and coordinator of the G20 Social, Márcio Macêdo
At the end of the speeches of the personalities, with that of Minister Márcio Macêdo closing the series, We handed him our contact card and a contact page. Summary presentation.
G20 Social Participatory App
Press conference
“This Tuesday (20), the Minister of the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic and coordinator of the G20 Social, Márcio Macêdo; the Minister of the Environment, Marina Silva; the Minister of Development and Social Assistance, Family and the Fight against Hunger in Brazil, Wellington Dias; the Secretary of International Relations of the Civil House, Bruno Costa; and the representative of the City of Rio, Lucas Padilha, spoke to the press about the G20 Social Summit Preparatory Meeting. The event took place throughout the day at Fundição Progresso, in Rio de Janeiro.”
Afternoon
G20 Social Preparatory Meeting on Global Governance Reform with Inclusion, Social justice and sustainability
Overview
Extract from the article on the G20 website:
“Felipe Hees, representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, He began the debate by highlighting the saturation and ineffectiveness of the current structures of international governance, particularly within the framework of the United Nations (UNO). “Existing international agreements lack legitimacy and effectiveness in implementation, compromising their functioning and the global trust placed in them”, Said. He emphasized the role of the G20 as a channeler of political momentum, able to promote concrete actions and urge UN members to engage in meaningful reforms.”
Marcel Fukayama, member of the National Council for Economic and Social Development
Extract from the article on the G20 website:
“Marcel Fukuyama, of the Council for Economic and Social Development (CDES), proposed the implementation of a distributed governance model and the unification of debates around a new economic paradigm, aligned with planetary boundaries and social responsibility. “Brazil can be a major player in promoting a new order of economic governance that prioritizes social and environmental justice”, Fukuyama highlighted.“
Our testimony
Testimony of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization in Working Group 4 on Global Governance Reform (Enabler: Fabricio Prado, Advisor on Social Participation and Diversity at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil)
Concise version of the audio transcript
Representative of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization:
I'm Eric (…), I'm a mild autistic, and created the Autistan Diplomatic Organization, headquartered in Rio de Janeiro.
For us, Autistic, The society of non-autistic people may seem strange. I often say that autistic people are foreigners in their own country, anywhere in the world. In this type of event, I try to understand the problems of the world, and some things that some speakers explained find an echo, In my head, with the specific problems faced by autistic people.
Although the G20 theme is not directly related, I'm going to talk a little about autism. It is important to remember that 1% of the world's population is autistic, and even if it were 0,01%, should be taken into account.
There are many misunderstandings and problems regarding what to do with autistic people. The society's approach, especially from public agencies, it is usually defectological and medical, Which doesn't help.
There is also a problem of representativeness. The people who are supposed to represent the people and create public policies are often not the same people who really benefit from them. In autism, The so-called representatives are not necessarily representative, due to the nature of autism. The more someone speaks well, less represents autistic people who do not speak.
But, There are some autistic people who, fortunately, do not seek the spotlight, thus avoiding confusion between social recognition and self-esteem, which is a general problem. Autistic people who socialize almost all end up falling into this trap.
What I mean is that, although they do not represent the majority of autistic people, There are some that can help to better understand autism and the needs of autistic people in a more respectful and realistic way, Listening and trying to understand what we really want.
I talk about autism, But there are also other forms of disability.
Unfortunately, There is a communication problem between what I call “Bureaucratism” and autistic people, What makes dialogue difficult. For instance, someone mentioned the lethargy of the government of Rio Grande do Sul [referring to the improvidence of the State during the tragic floods of 2024], which reflects well the problem of bureaucratism.
Nevertheless, It is necessary to find ways to make public agencies pay attention, Listen, and understand that what we can explain is very useful.
Thank you.
Fabricio Prado:
Thank you very much, Eric.
Someone:
(…)
Representative of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization:
I liked the concept of debureaucratization. There is also the problem of the denaturalization of society. Autistic people are more adapted to nature.
Audio Transcript
This transcript has been slightly corrected to adjust for Portuguese errors, but the original meaning was perfectly preserved.
Representative of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization:
Oh, yes, good idea. I'm Eric (…), I am French, That's why I don't speak Portuguese well.
It's complicated for me, because since normally for the autistic people of the world, from any country, The society of non-autistic people is a bit of a strange thing. I usually say that autistic people are foreigners in their own country, in every country in the world.
So, here, in this type of event, I try to understand the problems of the world… áSometimes, There are some things that some speakers explained, that resonate, In my head, with the specific problems of autistic people, of autism.
Finally, To talk about my subject, that, in theory, it doesn't have much to do with the G20 issue and all that, But I'm going to talk a little about autism.
First, It is necessary to consider that 1% of the world's population is autistic.
So, You have to take into account, and also, If we were even 0,01%, would also have to take into account.
The problem is that there are many misunderstandings, a lot of confusion, Many problems about what to do with autistic people. Until today, generally, in the world, The Society's Approach, in particular public bodies, is a defectological approach, Medical. That doesn't help.
But what to do ? I'll talk briefly.
The people they represent, that create public policies, are not the actual beneficiaries. No, yes, [they] are the beneficiaries of money and that sort of thing, but they are not the people.
Someone's listening to what I say? 🙂
… in a way that is more respectful of the reality of the, Of…, Listening (Way of speaking, because many [Autistic] They won't speak), mtry to better understand autism, What autistic people want.
So, What I mean is that, paradoxically, unfortunately, Have a communication problem Enter what I call, No offense, of the “Bureaucratism” (is a word to simplify the problem), such as the problem of Rio Grande do Sul, Someone spoke of the government's lethargy [referring to the improvidence of the State during the tragic floods of 2024], There's this problem, and also the difficulties of communication between what we call Bureaucratism, above, and autistic people, that are something very particular, makes it very difficult to have a dialogue.
And dialogue is necessary to solve problems.
There are some people, Like us, who can explain things to public agencies, and you have to find a way to make that connection, for them to pay attention, Listen and then understand that what we can explain is very useful.
Fabricio Prado
Thank you very much, Eric.
(Someone in the group)
(…) of debureaucratization?
Yes, yes. Have you noticed that my writing on the board is…
Debureaucratization, I liked the… [concept].
There is also the problem of the denaturalization of society.
Analysis
Analysis of the Intervention of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization at the G20 (by Chat GPT)
The intervention of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization during the G20 meeting highlighted several points that could significantly enrich the G20 discussions:
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Representativeness and Inclusion: The organization highlighted the problem of the representativeness of autistic people in discussions and public policies. This point is crucial for the G20, because it touches on the broader issue of social inclusion and the representativeness of minorities in decision-making processes. By integrating the perspectives of autistic people, the G20 could enrich its discussions on inclusion, Diversity and rights of people with disabilities, essential elements to promote a fair society.
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Communication Problems and Bureaucracy: The speaker also mentioned the communication difficulties between autistic people and what he called “Bureaucratism”. This metaphor highlights the gap between bureaucratic decision-makers and the populations they are supposed to serve. This could serve as a basis for G20 discussions on administrative reform and the simplification of bureaucratic procedures, making them more accessible and inclusive. The observation about the need to reduce bureaucracy and improve communication is relevant to the G20 discussions on government effectiveness and good governance.
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Medical Approach vs. Social: A critique has been made of the traditional medical approach to autism, proposing a more respectful perspective based on the real needs of autistic people. This critique could be useful for the G20 in highlighting the need to rethink health policies and social services so that they are more person-centred and less on a deficient medical model. Discussions on health care reform, Well-being and social services could benefit from this more humane and inclusive perspective.
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Global Problem and Need for Cooperation: The intervention also highlighted that 1% of the world's population is autistic, underlining the importance of including this population in global discussions. This could encourage the G20 to address autism and other disabilities not just as public health issues, but also as human rights issues that require international cooperation.
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Resilience and Adaptability: In the end, the idea that autistic people are often “Foreigners in their own country” and are more adapted to nature than to modern society can enrich G20 discussions on the resilience and adaptability of societies in the face of rapid change. This unique perspective offers a reflection on how different populations adapt or struggle to adapt to social and economic changes.
Analysis conclusion
Analysis conclusion on Usefulness in G20 Discussions (by Chat GPT)
The intervention of the Autistan Diplomatic Organization could be very useful in the G20 discussions by bringing perspectives on inclusion, reform of bureaucratic processes, need for a social approach to autism and international cooperation for the rights of autistic people. By introducing these ideas, This intervention contributes to a broader debate on equity, Social justice and good governance, which are central concerns of the G20.
Afternoon recap article
This official article (governmental) presents the work of the Working Group on the Reform of Global Governance, in which we participate: https://www.g20.org/pt-br/noticias/reforma-da-governanca-global-com-inclusao-justica-social-e-sustentabilidade
Debates on Global Governance Reform during the G20 Social Preparatory Meeting. © Credit: Audiovisual G20.
Discussions with officials
Essence of the discussions
The main themes that we highlight with the people in the government agencies that we meet are:
- the fact that Brazil is a very large and very important country, with significant needs on the part of the autistic population, but also with an important potential for the central need for “Accessibility for autistic people with disabilities”, thanks to the kindness of the general population;
- the fact that, for such a great country, It is surprising that there is neither a public agency nor a person responsible for autism in the government (and not even at the National Secretariat for People with Disabilities);
- the fact that it would be necessary to have a national public policy for autism, and that existing laws are good, but they are not enough;
- the fact that we can actually offer useful information (complementary to those already provided by other entities), and that we can prove this with various experiences in other countries and with the UN;
- the fact that, paradoxically, the National Secretariat for People with Disabilities does not seem so interested in our proposals (Despite many attempts on our part), and that this is precisely due to the lack of accessibility on which we insist, and that is present even among them.
Documents delivered
Felipe Hees
This photo was taken in 03/07/2024 During the “C20/T20 Convergence”, but we republish it here for the sake of consistency with the two others below (All these people are holding our flag).
Beyond the discussions “essential” mentioned earlier, Another interesting point of our conversations with Mr.. Felipe HEES was the one he told us that our flag (delivered on 03/07/2024) is on his desk at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, in Brasilia. Therefore, It is common for visitors to ask what it represents, and he explains that it is the flag of Autistan.
The diplomats and officials of this Ministry know the countries and their flags well. Even if they don't all know them by heart, They realize that this flag, Although it looks like a national flag, is unknown. In addition, She draws attention for being considered beautiful and attractive, something recognized by everyone.
Mr.. HEES also speaks fluent French, as someone who never left France, which makes our conversations so much simpler, Quick, direct and pleasant.
Fabricio Prado
Fabricio Prado is also very approachable and friendly. In addition to discussions on the topics “essential” mentioned earlier, He told us that, in your Ministry (of Foreign Affairs), there is a department that takes care of issues related to disability and that many employees of this Ministry have autistic children.
Given the relaxed atmosphere of the conversation, We mentioned that “Dogs don't make cats” and that, When there is an autistic child, There is always at least one parent who is also autistic (Even if in a way “lightweight”). This is a good sign for the future of relations with this Ministry. He told us that he would put us in touch with this department.
Gustavo Westmann
Gustavo Westmann was also very kind and friendly with us, Whenever we meet. This exceptional diplomat is clearly the key piece of the G20 2024, and it's always busy, walking quickly from place to place and frequently on phone calls. It's hard for him to find available time. Nevertheless, ultimately, He gave us a few minutes and was even very patient during the photos (which we repeated several times with different settings).
We gave him the documents mentioned above and briefly explained the “Essential points”, in addition to showing the dossier of more than 90 pages we had sent multiple times (Unsuccessful) to the SNDPD (National Secretariat for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities) a year ago.
Viewing the dossier, He thought it was good and “interesting” (What is a common reaction), And asked us if we could leave it with him. It was not what we had planned, But obviously we agree, though without much hope that he will find the time to look into it further (or to remember him).
But you have to try…
Other people found
Marcel Fukayama
Marcel Fukayama is a member of the National Council for Economic and Social Development.
We had some discussions about the “Key Themes” of our organization, andWe have given him our “Quick Presentation Document” (https://autistan.rio/autistao-e-autismo/) and exchanged our telephone contacts.
Lavito Bacarissa
Lavito Bacarissa is Executive Secretary at the National Commission for the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) at the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic.
andWe have given him our “Quick Presentation Document” (https://autistan.rio/autistao-e-autismo/) and we exchanged our Business Cards.
Elizeu Soares Lopes
Elizeu Soares Lopes is an Advisor for Social Participation and Diversity at the Ministry of Justice and Public Security..
AndWe gave him our “Quick Presentation Document” (https://autistan.rio/autistao-e-autismo/) and we exchanged our Business Cards.
Henrique Frota
Henrique Frota is President of ABONG, Executive Director of the Polis Institute, and President of the C20.
We told him that we found his general presentation on the world's problems, made this afternoon, particularly clear, Complete and concise, and asked if it had been recorded and was available somewhere. Unfortunately, No, then we'll have to record it next time.
Juliana Cesar
Juliana Cesar, Of Gestures, is Co-Chair of the C20.
We've been talking for a long time. For us, He's a person who has a kind of power “magical” to solve problems smoothly, with a minimum of words and/or actions.
Maria Fernanda Marcelino
Conclusion
For the time being, autistic people are still very rarely present at these events and consultations, Mainly because autism is often perceived, wrongly, as a form of mental illness. As a result, Organizers and politicians don't even consider our inclusion. Whether in face-to-face events (like today) or even by videoconference, Our participation usually remains difficult, mainly due to the lack of accessibility. Social interactions, the speed of exchanges with non-autistic people, as well as the lack of time and attention given to us make these contexts unfavorable for us.
That is why we need to redouble our efforts to overcome these obstacles and ensure the presence of autistic people at events, consultations and processes of social and political participation that can have a direct impact on our lives. We have already started to act, actively participating with written contributions and in meetings within the framework of the C20 2024 in Brazil. These efforts have begun to bear fruit: autism was first mentioned in the official C20 documents, certainly thanks to our perseverance and our commitment.
The C20, which brings together all the countries of the G20 and beyond, It provides a unique platform for discussing global issues, including those related to inclusion and the rights of autistic people. On the other hand, the G20 Social 2024, organized by the Brazilian government, focused mainly on the participation of Brazilians, paying less attention to the inclusion of people with disabilities. Despite this orientation, Our presence at this event proved to be valuable, not only to develop our network of contacts, but also to raise awareness about the importance of including autistic people in global discussions on social inclusion.
Our participation in the “G20 Social” and in the “C20” helped reinforce the relevance of autism in broader discussions about social inclusion and reducing inequalities. By integrating our unique perspective, We contribute to enriching these dialogues and demonstrating that the concerns of autistic people deserve the same attention as those of other marginalized groups.
Through this engagement, we had the opportunity to meet interesting new people and strengthen our first contacts with key figures such as Fabricio Prado and Gustavo Westmann. These interactions have not only opened new doors, but they also strengthened our position in future discussions, Allowing us to build strategic alliances to advance the rights of autistic people.
In addition, by listening directly to ministers and experts, We found that the positions of the Brazilian government on issues such as the exploitation of the “Global North” and the defense of Nature are perfectly aligned with our own points of view. This alignment provides a strategic opportunity to influence future public policy and promote a better understanding of the needs of autistic people.
Our intervention and the discussion around the concepts of “Bureaucratism” and “denaturalization of society” enriched the debates, highlighting the need for more inclusive reforms and public policies more adapted to the realities of autistic people. By exposing these issues, We draw attention to the importance of integrating diverse perspectives into political decision-making.
Finally, “as a bonus”, We were lucky enough to feel the “vibration” Very positive from the Brazilian people during this event, especially when everyone sang the Brazilian National Anthem, a beautiful song that perfectly reflects what we perceive of Brazil: A country truly full of potential, generosity, resilience, Human warmth and talents. This moment of solidarity reinforced our conviction that Brazil can be a global example of inclusion and respect for all differences.
We invite all stakeholders to continue this essential dialogue and explore more ways to make decision-making processes more inclusive. Working together, We can build a future where all voices, including those of autistic people, are not only heard, but also respected and taken into account in a meaningful way.
Additional Reflections:
We also note that the current government of Brazil and Brazilian civil society are deeply concerned about the protection of nature, the defense of the rights of indigenous peoples and support for minorities. In this context, It is pertinent to remember that we, Autistic, We have often explained that we are more adapted to naturalness, while the main problem we face is artificialization and “Robotization” of society, as well as the denaturation of the human species.
The consequences of this serious problem are now perceived even by non-autistic people, And it would be really beneficial and urgent for them to start listening to us and understanding that accessibility measures (“autism friendly”) that we claim (and that the authorities do not listen or understand in any way) are not only necessary for autistic people, but also for all human beings, Animals and nature. Autistic people, In this sense, can serve as a “Developers” or “Fuses” of current social failures.
In addition, The accessibility policies that we have requested and that we can explain in detail would not only benefit autistic people, but would also allow for significant energy savings, Healthcare costs, Court proceedings, and much more. It's time to consider affordability as an essential investment for a sustainable and inclusive future, beneficial for both autistic people and society as a whole.
Invitation to Continue the Dialogue
Moving towards a future where all voices are heard, We must continue this essential dialogue. We invite all stakeholders to collaborate with us to explore more ways to make decision-making processes more inclusive. Working together, We can not only improve the living conditions of autistic people, but also contribute to a fairer society, equitable and livable for all.