Membership is open to all organizations and individuals who are committed to zero leprosy and that support the principles, objectives, and activities of the Global Partnership for Zero Leprosy. Learn more.
Photo Credit: LEPRA
Why Now?
Since the introduction of effective multi-drug therapy (MDT) 30 years ago, the reported prevalence of leprosy has been reduced by 99%. However, the number of newly diagnosed leprosy patients has remained above 200,000 per year for the last decade, including thousands of children.
New scientific advances are changing the way we approach leprosy and may provide innovative ways to fully interrupt transmission of the disease. Recent scientific breakthroughs include improved diagnostic methods, more effective ways to prevent the spread of infections, and new ways of treating people at greatest risk.
Along with these innovations, achieving zero leprosy requires a strong global alignment behind a common vision. The leprosy community feels a renewed sense of urgency to accelerate progress through collaboration. The Global Partnership for Zero Leprosy will build on and strengthen existing collaborative networks to support leprosy programs as they adopt new tools and approaches.
Action Framework
View our upcoming and long-term milestones towards zero leprosy. Learn more.
The COVID-19 Crisis and Persons Affected by Leprosy Fact Sheet
Persons affected by leprosy have been especially impacted by the worst consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Governments, NGOs, civil society organizations, and organizations of persons affected by leprosy have enacted policies and programmes intended to support persons affected during this crisis, although there are still gaps. The Global Partnership for Zero Leprosy COVID-19 Emergency Response Working Group 2 and UN Special Rapporteur Alice Cruz, gathered data from 100+ persons affected and partners, representing 24 countries on available programmes and resources offering support to persons affected during this time. This fact sheet highlights some of the measures taken by governments and NGOs in the represented countries, and underscores the need for increased support.
