What legal frameworks support leprosy patients' rights in Nepal?

In Nepal, the Disability Rights Act 2017 and the Constitution of Nepal 2015 support the rights of leprosy patients.

The Disability Rights Act 2017 is a significant legal framework that supports the rights of leprosy patients in Nepal. This Act recognises leprosy as a disability and provides a comprehensive framework for the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities, including those affected by leprosy. The Act prohibits discrimination on the grounds of disability and ensures equal opportunities in all aspects of life, including education, employment, health services, and participation in public life. It also mandates the government to provide necessary services and facilities to persons with disabilities, such as rehabilitation services, assistive devices, and reasonable accommodation.

The Constitution of Nepal 2015 is another important legal document that safeguards the rights of leprosy patients. The Constitution guarantees the right to equality and prohibits discrimination on any grounds, including physical or health condition. It recognises the rights of persons with disabilities as fundamental rights and ensures their full participation and inclusion in all aspects of national life. The Constitution also mandates the state to pursue policies aimed at protecting the rights and interests of persons with disabilities, including their right to social security and health services.

In addition to these legal frameworks, there are also several policies and strategies in place to support the rights of leprosy patients in Nepal. For instance, the National Health Policy 2014 prioritises the provision of health services to marginalised and vulnerable groups, including persons affected by leprosy. The National Leprosy Control Strategy 2016-2020 aims to eliminate leprosy as a public health problem and to ensure the rights and dignity of persons affected by leprosy.

Furthermore, Nepal is a signatory to several international human rights treaties that protect the rights of persons with disabilities, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. These international commitments provide additional legal and moral obligations for the government to uphold the rights of leprosy patients.