#Brussels #Belgium #Sasakawa Initiative #Education International #Leprosy

Global Appeal 2026: The Role of Education in Ending Leprosy Stigma

On January 29, 2026, the Global Appeal to End Stigma and Discrimination Against Persons Affected by Leprosy was launched in Brussels, Belgium, marking a significant milestone in the fight against this age-old disease and the stigma surrounding it. This event was co-hosted by Education International and the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen's Disease) Initiative, in partnership with the Damien Foundation.

The initiative, now in its 21st year, brings together key stakeholders from various sectors to sign a collective pledge aimed at eliminating the social barriers surrounding leprosy, commonly known as Hansen's disease. This year’s appeal focuses particularly on the transformative power of education as a tool for dispelling myths, reducing prejudice, and promoting inclusion.

The event featured a roundtable audience with Her Majesty Queen Mathilde of Belgium, who expressed her support for the initiative. In her message, she recognized the Global Appeal as essential in the fight against leprosy-related stigma and highlighted the importance of linking health, education, and equality as part of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Approximately 80 participants attended the launch at The Merode, including individuals affected by leprosy, educators, policymakers, health professionals, and representatives of civil society. Dr. Mugwena Maluleke, President of Education International, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to ending stigma through inclusive education and the promotion of human rights and dignity for all.

In highlighting the importance of education, Takashi Kajiwara, Vice President of Education International, pointed out that education empowers children to understand invisible threats, dismantling prejudices and fostering a culture of tolerance toward discrimination.

The launch featured video messages from pivotal figures like Dr. Beatriz Miranda, UN Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy. She emphasized that while leprosy is treatable, the discrimination persists. Efforts to combat this stigma are critical for ensuring rights, social inclusion, and peace. Similarly, Stefania Giannini from UNESCO remarked on the profound impact of education in furthering dignity, equality, and social justice.

Ms. Maguette Ndiaye, the chair of the Oversight Committee for the Global Forum of People's Organizations on Hansen's Disease, spoke on behalf of affected individuals, calling for awareness based on accurate information and the elimination of stigma. She asserted that leprosy does not define a person and advocated for collective efforts to build an inclusive society. Ms. Pascale Barnich, General Manager of the Damien Foundation, reiterated that ending leprosy is achievable with ongoing support for research, stronger health systems, poverty reduction programs, and combatting misinformation that fuels stigma.

Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, stressed the importance of providing children and families affected by leprosy with barrier-free access to education. He remarked that education is crucial in breaking the cycle of poverty and stigma, empowering affected individuals to integrate and thrive in society.

The ceremony concluded with the reading of the Global Appeal 2026 declaration, emphasizing education’s pivotal role in breaking the cycle of stigma and discrimination. This declaration highlighted the need for knowledge, empathy, inclusion, and the empowerment of both teachers and students to uphold human rights.

Following the ceremony, two special seminars facilitated dialogue on the current global situation regarding leprosy and strategies for leveraging education to combat stigma. Dr. Takahiro Nanri and Dr. David Edwards led discussions that reaffirmed the central role of education in addressing misinformation and fostering an inclusive environment for those affected by leprosy.

Conclusion

Education is not merely a tool for learning; it serves as the foundation for societal change. The Global Appeal 2026 champions this cause as it seeks to eradicate the stigma surrounding leprosy, advocating for a world where every individual can enjoy dignity and inclusion, regardless of their past health challenges. The journey towards inclusivity and the dismantling of discriminatory barriers has begun, and with continued commitment and action, a stigma-free future can indeed be realized.

About Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infectious ailment affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. Despite being curable, many individuals face persistent stigma that hinders their full participation in society even after treatment. The Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative has been pivotal in raising global awareness and advocating for the rights of those affected.

About Our Partners

The Sasakawa Leprosy Initiative collaborates with the WHO and other organizations to support efforts aimed at eradicating leprosy and improving health systems. Education International, representing millions of educators worldwide, stands at the forefront of advocating for inclusive educational practices. The Damien Foundation works tirelessly to improve health outcomes for those affected by neglected tropical diseases including leprosy.