MESSAGE FROM THE AMBASSADOR
Getting to elimination requires approaches from all angles
This year, 2026, will be my 25th as WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination. During this quarter-century, I have visited 127 countries and devoted more than 3,700 days to activities promoting the elimination of leprosy. Read More
VIEWPOINT
Modeling insights into the impact of SDR-PEP
Evidence indicates that single-dose rifampicin (SDR) reduces the risk of developing leprosy among contacts by approximately 60%. SDR starts working immediately by killing the bacteria that, … Read more
VIEWPOINT
Field studies support implementation of SDR-PEP for interruption of transmission
Studies on the use and impact of single-dose rifampicin (SDR) as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) have been and are being carried out under routine national programs in many countries, including India, Nepal, Indonesia, and Cambodia. Read more
VIEWPOINT
Members of the 3rd Global Forum’s Oversight Committee are working to promote rights-based approaches and meaningful participation
In July 2025, with facilitation support from the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative, organizations participating in the 3rd Global Forum of People’s Organizations on Leprosy/Hansen’s Disease, held in Bali, Indonesia, established a global level Oversight Committee. Read more
AMBASSADOR’S JOURNAL
Meeting with Indonesia’s President and Minister of Health / Roundtable discussion with Queen of the Belgians
REPORT
Global Appeal 2026 focuses on education’s role in ending leprosy stigma and discrimination
The Global Appeal 2026 to End Stigma and Discrimination Against Persons Affected by Leprosy was launched on Jan. 29, 2026, in Brussels, Belgium, at an event co-hosted by Education International and the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative, … Read more
OBITUARY
In honor of Martha Cecilia, who dedicated her life to vulnerable people
Martha Cecilia Barbosa Ladino lived a life defined by love, service, and unwavering commitment to others. She was a devoted daughter, sister, partner, mother, grandmother, aunt, and a loyal friend,… Read more
OBITUARY
Lawyer and activist Doddy Agustinus Tumadduk passed away in Indonesia
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Doddy Agustinus Tumadduk on Dec. 27, 2025, at the age of 46. He was laid to rest at the Panaikan Christian Cemetery in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Read more
