UN Expert Urges Colombia to Tackle Leprosy Stigma and Inequality

Miranda-Galarza said the burden of leprosy falls disproportionately on communities already facing social and economic disadvantages.

Colombia must do more to address the discrimination, exclusion and social barriers faced by people affected by leprosy and their families, according to a United Nations human rights expert following an official visit to the country. Beatriz Miranda-Galarza, the UN Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy and their family members, said the disease remains a significant human rights issue despite advances in diagnosis and treatment.

Speaking at the conclusion of her visit from 2 to 10 June, Miranda-Galarza acknowledged efforts by Colombian authorities to improve disease surveillance and healthcare services. She cautioned that transmission continues in parts of the country, including among children, highlighting the need for stronger action. She stressed that eliminating leprosy requires more than medical interventions and called for greater political commitment, social inclusion and protection of human rights.

Vulnerable communities continue to face major barriers

The UN expert noted that many people affected by leprosy still experience delayed diagnoses, poverty, disability-related challenges and discrimination in healthcare settings, schools, workplaces and local communities. Access to treatment remains difficult in some rural and historically underserved regions, where people often travel long distances to receive medical care. Many also face obstacles when seeking disability recognition, rehabilitation services and social protection programmes.

Miranda-Galarza said the burden of leprosy falls disproportionately on communities already facing social and economic disadvantages. These include Indigenous Peoples, Afro-Colombian communities, migrants, women, children, older adults and people affected by violence or forced displacement. She warned that in some parts of the country, those living with the disease remain largely invisible within public policy and social support systems.

Call for recognition of historical injustices

The Special Rapporteur also urged Colombia to acknowledge the historical violations experienced by people affected by leprosy and their families. For decades, many individuals were subjected to segregation, institutionalisation and widespread social exclusion because of the disease. Miranda-Galarza said recognising this history is an important step toward justice, healing and reconciliation. She emphasised that people affected by leprosy should be viewed as rights holders whose experiences and perspectives must play a central role in shaping public policies and programmes.

The expert called on the Colombian Government to adopt a comprehensive human rights-based strategy that addresses not only healthcare needs but also equality, accessibility, mental health support, rehabilitation services, public education and social protection. According to Miranda-Galarza, meaningful participation from affected communities will be essential if Colombia is to eliminate both the disease and the discrimination that continues to surround it. Her findings and recommendations are expected to contribute to ongoing discussions about public health, social inclusion and human rights protections in the country.