Stigma and Discrimination Remain Critical Problems
The United Nations recently acknowledged the challenges confronted by individuals living with albinism worldwide, noting stigma, discrimination and limited access to essential products like sunscreen lotion.
According to UN experts, these issues continue to hinder rights and well-being among these people globally.
Limited Access to Essential Resources such as Sunscreen
UN agencies have identified one of the primary concerns as being limited access to sunscreen lotions, crucial products in protecting people with albinism from UV rays, due to limited accessibility in regions with intense sun exposure.
Without adequate access, risks associated with skin cancer and other medical complications increase exponentially for persons living with albinism.
Urgent Call for Increased Collaboration Between Government Agencies and Development Partners
Recently, the UN underscored the urgent necessity of governments and development partners working more collaboratively on behalf of persons living with albinism to tackle current challenges more efficiently.
They encouraged both national governments and international bodies to strengthen partnerships that help advance rights protection initiatives related to this population.
Ending Social Exclusion and Violence
The UN has recognised the critical need to combat stigmatisation and discrimination experienced by persons living with albinism, particularly when social challenges like violence, exclusion or lack of opportunity arise, further marginalising individuals living with albinism.
Therefore, it has issued a call for action which underscores its goal to build more inclusive societies where respecting and upholding each person’s rights, regardless of condition, is maintained and ensured.
Global Initiative to Safeguard the Rights of Persons Living with Albinism
The UN’s call to action follows growing concern regarding the rights and safety of persons living with albinism in countries that remain highly vulnerable.
Strengthening partnerships among governments, civil society organisations and development partners is considered essential in creating an inclusive society in which everyone’s rights, no matter their condition, are upheld and respected.
