At the upcoming 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), a resolution led by Malawi, alongside a core group of African member states on 'Human Rights and Neglected Tropical Diseases' is set to be tabled. This is a crucial moment for NTD advocacy: despite clear links between human rights and NTDs, this issue has long been neglected from a human rights perspective.
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over one billion people worldwide, overwhelmingly striking vulnerable, politically voiceless, and underserved populations, especially those living in poverty and rural communities.
Addressing human rights barriers that contribute to NTDs – and the rights violations that can result from them – can ensure access to treatment and strengthen prevention efforts, while reducing stigma and discrimination. A human rights approach recognizes that NTD elimination is both a public health priority and a matter of justice and human dignity. Supporting this resolution will ground NTD action in the human rights framework, strengthening accountability, promoting equity, and accelerating our progress towards realizing the right to health for all.
Take Action: Advocate for the Resolution
Your advocacy towards the adoption of this resolution at the 62nd session of the HRC will be key to ensuring member states adopt this vital text. We strongly encourage you to contact your government representatives and urge them to support the adoption of this resolution during the session.
Uniting has prepared the resources you need to contact your government representatives, including your Minister of Foreign Affairs and copying your Minister of Health:
- Download the Template Letter: Fill this in to formally request your Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support the resolution. Click here to download the texts in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish
- Access the Briefing Note: Use this note to support your advocacy on NTDs and Human Rights. Click here to download the texts in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish
If adopted, this resolution will unlock important new avenues for advocacy, action and accountability on NTDs at the national and global levels. Thank you for your leadership and partnership in advancing this crucial advocacy effort.