Why a Rights-Based Framework Matters in Neurodiversity — and What It Means For Us
A rights-based approach to neurodiversity shifts the conversation from “supporting people with needs” to upholding the fundamental rights of neurodivergent people to safety, dignity, opportunity, and full participation in society. It treats neurodivergence not as an individual deficit, but as a natural part of human diversity - one that systems have historically excluded, misunderstood, or harmed. This matters because most barriers neurodivergent people face are systemic, not personal.
1. Moving Beyond Charity and Compliance
Traditional approaches frame neurodivergent people as recipients of charity, services, or sympathy. A rights-based framework does the opposite:
It recognizes neurodivergent people as rights-holders
It recognizes institutions, employers, and governments as duty-bearers
It shifts responsibility from the individual to the environment and system
This means we stop asking, “How can neurodivergent people try harder to fit in?” And instead ask, “How will systems uphold their legal and moral obligations to include, protect, and value neurodivergent people?” For NCF, this is foundational.
2. Centering Lived Expertise as Legitimate Authority
A rights-based lens insists that people with lived experience must lead. Not as tokens or advisory add-ons, or as half the group — but as the leaders in enabling neuroinclusive change, as co-designers, decision-makers, and equal and resourced partners.
This aligns with NCF’s entire model:
Lived experience is not anecdote — it is evidence. It is the centre.
Neurodivergent leadership is not optional — it is required for justice.
Inclusion is not a gesture, an accommodation, or a favour — it is a right.
3. Addressing Harm, Not Just “Inclusion”
Many, if not all, neurodivergent people are not only excluded or rejected — they are harmed. Some examples include:
Misdiagnosis, late diagnosis and being believed
Discrimination at work
Retaliation or punishment for disclosure
Unsafe mental health care
Systemic dismissal, gaslighting, and coercion to be someone else
A rights-based framework names this directly. These scenarios harm individuals in concrete ways that impact their health, financial stability and life expectancy. These scenarios are not differences of opinion.
NCF exists to build programs that reduce harm, increase accountability, and create safer systems — in healthcare, workplaces, and research.