Tomorrow marks World Leprosy Day – a day to raise awareness and work towards a leprosy-free world.

Despite being curable for over 30 years, leprosy faces a persistent stigma and discrimination. In a joint message, Director-General of the World Health Organization, and Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination urge us to move beyond mere medical intervention. Achieving a leprosy-free world demands addressing not just the disease but also the societal and psychological challenges it poses.

As we approach World Leprosy Day on January 28, let’s unite to break the chains of stigma. Educate, encourage, reject discrimination, and spread awareness.

This year, the WHO and Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative co-host the 2024 Global Appeal to End Stigma and Discrimination against Persons Affected by Leprosy at WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, on January 31, 2024. Please visit here for the details of the event. You can still register for live streaming participation.