On 2 April 2026, UNU will host “Autism Assistance Dogs and Inclusive Society: Advancing Human Rights through Project ACCESS”, a conversation with Yoshiko Paku, Representative Director of Assistance Dogs Japan. This event will start at 18:30 in the 2F Reception Hall at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
The United Nations General Assembly designated 2 April as “World Autism Awareness Day” to promote the full realization of dignity, human rights and equal participation of autistic individuals in society. This year’s observance is held under the theme “Autism and Humanity — Every Life Has Value.” In honour of this, it is important to consider innovative approaches to embracing neurodiversity and building an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
Yoshiko Paku will join UNU Rector Tshilidzi Marwala for a discussion on how human and animal partnerships can be utilized to tackle complex social issues, including disability inclusion, child well-being, and community resilience. The session will also introduce the international research initiative led by Assistance Dogs Japan, Project ACCESS (Advancing Access Rights and Building a Human–Canine Coexistent Society), and the invaluable role assistance dogs can play across healthcare, education and society. This event will also examine how knowledge from Japan can be applied to Asia’s paediatric hospitals, educational systems and communities.
Assistance dogs will be present at this event.
This event will also serve as an important milestone ahead of the International Assistance Dogs Research Forum, which will be held in Tokyo on 18 May 2026.
This event is part of the UNU Conversation Series, which aims to foster audience participation. You are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all event attendees are invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
Please note that this event will be in English and Japanese, with simultaneous interpretation provided. Advance registration (by 1 April at 15:00) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page. Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
About the Speaker
Yoshiko Paku is the Board President of Assistance Dogs Japan, a public interest incorporated foundation advancing the development and social inclusion of assistance dogs in Japan. A professional trainer qualified in guide dogs, service dogs, and hearing dogs, she is widely recognized as a pioneer in the development of Japan’s assistance dog system. She founded Assistance Dogs Japan in 2002 following the enactment of the Act on Assistance Dogs for Persons with Physical Disabilities and currently leads Project ACCESS, a global initiative promoting international collaboration connecting assistance dogs with healthcare, education, and community inclusion.