Leprosy Bulletin No.116

 
MESSAGE FROM THE AMBASSADOR

Regaining momentum for a leprosy-free world

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the discovery of the leprosy bacillus by Dr. Gerhard Armauer Hansen in Bergen, Norway. To prompt reflection on the past and build momentum for a zero leprosy future, the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative and the University of Bergen co-hosted an international conference on June 21–22. Read More

REPORT

Japan’s efforts to eliminate discrimination against persons affected by Hansen’s disease and their family members

The protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms is a basic responsibility of all countries and a matter of legitimate concern for the international community. Japan, based on the premise that human rights are universal values, puts efforts into improving human rights situations through bilateral dialogue, taking into account the historical and cultural background of each country. Read more

REPORT

Discriminatory law repealed in Senegal

For 47 years, Senegal has had nine villages de reclassement social (VRS), created by the authorities and governed by Law 76-03 of 1976. At the time that they were established, the VRS were intended to isolate persons affected by leprosy and block transmission of the disease. Read more

REPORT

Report on Bergen International Conference on Hansen’s Disease, June 21–22

On June 21–22, 2023, the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative and University of Bergen co-hosted an international conference in Bergen, Norway, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the discovery of the leprosy bacillus Mycobacterium leprae by Dr. Gerhard Armauer Hansen. Read more

VIEWPOINT

Reflections on my first months as MORHAN’s national coordinator

On June 1, 2023, Brazil’s Movement for the Reintegration of Persons Affected by Hansen’s Disease (MORHAN) held a live online event to honor and say farewell to Artur Custódio, who served as our national coordinator for many years. I have been challenged to step up and take over his role. Read more

Initiative News

Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative welcomes new program advisors

The Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative is a strategic alliance that coordinates the activities of the WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, Sasakawa Health Foundation, and The Nippon Foundation for the purpose of achieving a leprosy-free world. Read more

AMBASSADOR’S JOURNAL

Goodwill Ambassador Sasakawa attends Bergen International Conference on Hansen’s Disease

WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination Yohei Sasakawa visited Norway, June 21–22, to attend the Bergen International Conference on Hansen’s Disease. The event was co-sponsored by the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative and the University of Bergen. Read more

INITIATIVE NEWS

Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative launches cooperative relationship with the Miss Supranational Organization

Miss Supranational is an international beauty pageant that emphasizes natural grace and community service. In 2020, the Miss Supranational Organization launched “From the Ground Up,” an initiative meant to encourage grassroots projects that address local needs. Read more