World Leprosy Day 2025, Theme, Significance and History

Observed every year on the last Sunday of January, World Leprosy Day will be observed on 26 January 2025. The day provides a platform to recognise and honour people affected by leprosy, raise awareness about the disease and its effects, and eliminate the stigma and discrimination associated with it. It also encourages global efforts towards providing better healthcare and support to people affected by the disease.

World Leprosy Day 2025 Theme

The theme for World Leprosy Day 2025 is “Unite. Act. Eliminate.” This powerful message calls for collective action to increase awareness of leprosy, shed light on the difficulties faced by those affected by the disease, and inspire a unified effort to eradicate leprosy globally. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between communities, governments, and organizations in creating a world free from leprosy and its associated stigma.

• Unite (“Global Effort “): Achieving the elimination of leprosy requires collaboration from governments, healthcare providers, NGOs, and communities.
• Act (“Immediate Action”): Effective public education, early detection, prevention, treatment, and empowerment of affected individuals are key to halting transmission and ending the disease.
• Eliminate Leprosy (“Clear Objective”): The World Health Organization’s goal of eliminating leprosy is within reach through ongoing commitment, advancements in medical treatment, and continued investment in diagnostics and outreach.

World Leprosy Day 2025 Significance

World Leprosy Day plays a crucial role in challenging misconceptions, combating stigma, and promoting worldwide initiatives aimed at eradicating leprosy. The observance encourages education and awareness, fostering a sense of inclusion and solidarity. By empowering those affected by the disease, it advocates for a future where leprosy no longer holds individuals back, and society works together to eliminate its presence and impact.

World Leprosy Day 2025 History

World Leprosy Day, observed every year on the last Sunday of January, was initiated in 1954 by French journalist Raoul Follereau. He selected this particular day in honor of Mahatma Gandhi, who displayed great compassion for individuals suffering from leprosy. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the disease, promote understanding, and draw attention to the treatment methods available to those affected by leprosy. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing global efforts to combat the stigma and challenges faced by individuals with the disease.

What is the Purpose of Celebrating World Leprosy Day?

The purpose of World Leprosy Day is to increase public awareness about leprosy, reduce the stigma associated with the disease, and promote the rights and dignity of those affected. It aims to highlight the challenges faced by individuals living with leprosy and encourage communities to support them in overcoming discrimination and isolation. By fostering greater understanding and compassion, this day serves as a call to action for global efforts to ensure better healthcare and social inclusion for people affected by leprosy.