#Indonesia #Bali #Hansen's Disease #Sasakawa Initiative #Bali Forum

A Transformative Gathering in Bali

In July 2025, Bali served as the backdrop for a significant event focusing on the lived experiences of individuals affected by Hansen's disease, also known as leprosy. The 3rd Global Forum of People's Organizations was organized by the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen's Disease) Initiative, drawing over 110 representatives from organizations across 21 nations. This landmark forum witnessed the convergence of voices that have often been marginalized in the global health discourse.

A People-Centered Approach

From July 4 to 6, the forum adopted a distinctively people-centered approach in its design, influenced by surveys and regional meetings led by those directly impacted by the disease. Dr. Alice Cruz, a former UN Special Rapporteur and now a human rights advisor to the Sasakawa Initiative, spearheaded this effort. Her year-long preparation ensured that the event genuinely reflected the voices and challenges faced by these individuals.

Opening the forum, Dr. Takahiro Nanri, President of the Sasakawa Health Foundation, stated, "This Forum belongs to you. You are here not just for yourselves, but for countless brothers and sisters whose voices remain unheard." He emphasized the need for participants to translate their inclusion into actionable steps, igniting a spirit of resilience and commitment among those present.

Key Outputs for Change

Through discussions and collaborative efforts, the forum produced three vital outputs:
1. Letter of Commitment - Pledging commitment to build resilient organizations focused on advocacy and support.
2. Recommendations for Stakeholders - A call to governments, health systems, educational institutions, and the media to uphold the rights and dignity of those affected.
3. Action Plan for Capacity-Building - A strategic approach aimed at fortifying networks, ensuring sustainable funding, fostering leadership, and enhancing access to crucial tools and data necessary for progress.

On the concluding day, a roundtable was held, during which stakeholders like the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations representatives, and various NGOs provided feedback on the forum's outputs. Their support signified a collective commitment to turn the forum's resolutions into tangible actions moving forward.

A Message of Encouragement

Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, conveyed a powerful message to the participants: "I sincerely thank you for standing up despite hardships, creating organizations, and working for your fellow persons affected by Hansen's disease. I will support you however I can. Achieving WHO's goal of zero leprosy by 2030 will not be possible without your strength." His words served as a beacon of hope, motivating those in attendance to persist in their advocacy efforts.

Legacy of Hope and Insight

The forum's legacy is noteworthy, with 19 organizations beginning to showcase their findings at the subsequent 22nd International Leprosy Congress (ILC). These presentations highlighted community-defined challenges and set the stage for further discussion on how to address these issues in a global context.

On the same day, notable representatives shared the forum's key outputs during the ILC's Inauguration Session, ensuring that the perspectives of those affected by Hansen's disease reached influential health leaders around the world. This sharing exemplified the forum's overarching purpose – to amplify the voices and priorities of individuals impacted by Hansen's disease.

In summary, the 3rd Global Forum was not merely a conference but a call to action, meticulously designed and executed by and for persons affected by Hansen's disease. The commitments and solidarity observed in Bali will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for ongoing change and hope across communities worldwide.

Understanding Hansen's Disease

Hansen's disease primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves, with approximately 200,000 new cases reported each year despite its curability. However, stigma and discrimination related to the disease continue to impact the lives of affected individuals. The Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative remains dedicated to dismantling these barriers, aiming for a world free from both the disease and the prejudice it incites.

This forum marked another crucial step toward achieving an inclusive and supportive global health dialogue, championing the rights and dignity of those affected by Hansen's disease and setting a foundation for collaborative efforts that echo worldwide.