Parents Demand Action for Autism Center in Podgorica by November 2

Parents and guardians of children with autism in Podgorica are poised to take their concerns directly to the city’s Assembly and Municipality if local officials do not specify a location for a new day center for autistic children by November 2, 2023. Goran Laković, a representative from the NGO Niste sami, expressed frustration over the lack of communication from authorities regarding urgent requests for suitable facilities.

Laković highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “We sent a letter to all 61 council members, urging them to address this issue as soon as possible.” He emphasized that parents are not willing to accept temporary solutions, such as the current day center, which he described as inadequate for their needs. “We require a larger space. If we do not receive a response by the deadline, we will bring our children to the Assembly and the Mayor’s office to demand an explanation,” he added.

Recent protests organized by parents and caregivers have called for a designated location for the new center within fifteen days, a request that has yet to be fulfilled. Many attendees voiced their concerns about the systemic failures that hinder access to professional support for their children. “We can no longer manage financially or physically without proper expert assistance,” Laković stated.

The demand for a new center has been compounded by previous promises from the municipality, including a commitment to identify a location within a week, which did not materialize. Parents have since sent urgent follow-up communications to the city, seeking clarity on the matter.

Potential Locations

Laković noted that they are seeking a location on the outskirts of the city. Authorities had suggested a smaller plot of land in Masline, around 2,000 square meters, which was rejected due to its limited capacity and location within a residential area. Another option presented was a site in Mareza, spanning approximately 12,000 square meters, as well as a location at Kakaricka Gora, which is closer to the city center.

“We believe that the decision should be made by experts, not politicians,” Laković insisted. He urged for an international competition to design the day center, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive project plan. “Why is a location not being determined? If they think we will stop advocating for our children after the protests, they are mistaken. We are prepared to take further action,” he added.

Minister’s Statement

One of the demands made during the protests was the establishment of a registry for individuals with autism. During a session of the Montenegrin Assembly, the Minister of Health, Vojislav Šimun, stated that he had received the request and tasked the Institute of Public Health with creating the registry. “I expect it to be completed by the end of this year or early next year,” he remarked.

However, inquiries made by Pobjeda revealed that the Institute of Public Health does not currently maintain a register for autism and that establishing such a registry is not included within their legal framework. “Since the registry has not been established, there is no precise timeline for its completion,” the institute explained.

Laković criticized this stance, arguing that it is the legal obligation of the Institute to compile such registers. “If someone claims that they are not legally required to do this, they should resign immediately,” he stated. He pointed out the absence of any registry, including for rare diseases and cerebral palsy, which are essential for formulating strategic policies.

Contention around the registry continues as the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare has indicated that they will create a registry for individuals who apply for re-evaluation, which may leave numerous individuals unregistered. “This will lead to inaccurate data. A registry is a living document that must be updated regularly,” he asserted.

Laković illustrated that accurate data can help various ministries respond effectively to the needs of children with autism. For instance, if a hundred children with autism are documented in schools, relevant ministries can determine appropriate steps to support their education.

Frustration among parents remains palpable, as they express dissatisfaction with how the state is addressing the needs of their children. During a recent protest, they called for inclusive practices tailored to individual needs, accessible speech therapy, and enhanced support for parents. They emphasized the urgency of building a system from the ground up that serves all children with developmental challenges.

The parents have held protests previously, including one on April 2, but their demands have yet to be met. They lament that no tangible changes have occurred to improve the situation for children with autism and other developmental difficulties.

From the office of President Jakov Milatović, a message was conveyed that the government allocates millions of euros for medical treatments abroad. Parents argue that these funds could instead be utilized to establish modern centers within the country, where families can remain together while their children receive adequate support at home.