The European Union has called on States to take more effective affirmative action to address the intergenerational impacts of obsolete health policies that led to human rights violations against persons affected by Hansen's disease (leprosy) and their family members. In a statement delivered on 19 June 2026 during the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council, the EU voiced support for the Special Rapporteur's report and highlighted the persistence of stigma and discrimination stemming from past practices such as segregation, family separation, and coerced sterilization.
The statement, published by the EEAS on 22 June 2026, underscores the importance of the international human rights framework, including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, for implementing a human rights-based approach to leprosy. The EU reaffirmed its active role in supporting leprosy control through research funding, public health initiatives, and international cooperation. It cited EU-funded projects such as PEP4LEP 2.0, which focuses on preventing transmission in Sub-Saharan Africa, and TEBULA, which aims at faster testing and treatment. The EU also supports digital innovation, including AI-powered tools, to improve early detection of skin-related neglected tropical diseases.
The EU concluded by asking the Special Rapporteur which actions she considers a priority to address structural discrimination policies. The statement reflects the EU's commitment to human rights and public health, impacting stakeholders such as persons affected by leprosy and their families, EU research and health institutions, national health authorities in affected regions, and international human rights bodies.