As discrimination and prejudice against Hansen's disease still persists, a national study group made up of former patients and human rights experts recommends considering the establishment of a national awareness center to eliminate discrimination. I decided to do it.
In the past, leprosy patients were forcibly isolated in sanatoriums under the law, and even after the isolation policy ended in 1996, ex-patients were refused to stay in hot spring facilities and could promote prejudice in elementary schools. It has become clear that no lessons were held.
In July last year, the government set up a study group made up of former patients, human rights experts, and historians to eliminate discrimination and prejudice, and on the 4th, an interim report of recommendations to the country was summarized. ..
In this, he points out that "measures to eliminate discrimination and prejudice by the country are inadequate," and then conducts a nationwide awareness survey so that effective measures can be taken.
In addition, consideration will be given to the establishment of the "National Hansen's Disease Human Rights Education and Awareness Center," which specializes in enlightenment and human rights consultations on the issue of Hansen's disease, and the contents of pamphlets for junior high school students, which are not being utilized, will be reviewed. I did.
The study group will continue discussions and prepare a final report by the end of this fiscal year.