Film Screening Event of “An (Sweet Bean)”

　On Tuesday November 12, the Permanent Mission of Japan to the International Organizations in Geneva, together with Brazil, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Portugal, and ILEP, held a film-screening event of “An (Sweet Bean)”at WIPO.

　Ambassador Ken OKANIWA made his introductory remarks on the significance of the event as well as Japan’s efforts to eliminate discrimination against persons affected by leprosy and their family members.

　Mr. Todd Howland, Chief of the Development, Economic and Social Issues Branch, OHCHR stressed the importance of each one of us overcoming prejudice.

　 Ms. Younkyo AHN, Human Rights Officer, OHCHR, delivered the statement on behalf of Ms. Alice Cruz, Special Rapporteur on the elimination of discrimination against persons affected by leprosy and their family members. The message called on people to listen to “voices of voiceless” by persons affected by leprosy.

　Then, we screened the film, “An (Sweet Bean)” followed by reception. The participants deepened their understanding on discrimination and difficulties faced by persons affected by leprosy, and exchanged their views.