The United Nations(UN)’s International Albinism Awareness Day(IAAD) is annually observed across the globe on 13th June to create awareness about Albinism and the human rights of the people with albinism.
The theme of the International Albinism Awareness Day 2021 is “Strength Beyond All Odds”.
2021 IAAD theme:
- The 2021 theme highlights the achievement of people with albinism across the globe.
Background:
i.In June 2014, the Human Rights Council recommended the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to proclaim the 13th of June as IAAD.
ii.The UNGA adopted the resolution A/RES/69/170 on 18th December 2014 and proclaimed the 13th June of every year starting from 2015 as the International Albinism Awareness Day.
iii.The First IAAD was observed on 13th June 2015.
Why June 13?
13th June marks the date on which the Human Rights Council adopted the first-ever Resolution on Albinism in 2013.
Albinism:
i.Albinism is a genetically inherited difference present at birth, which is a lack of melanin pigmentation in hair, skin and eyes.
ii.Albinism causes vulnerability to the sun and bright light.
iii.Most people with albinism are visually impaired and are prone to develop skin cancer.
Human rights of Albinos:
i.The people with albinism were often subjected to marginalization and social exclusion due to their physical appearance and discrimination against the albinos and puts them through constant risk.
ii.In June 2015, the United Nations Human Rights Council appointed Ikponwosa Ero as the first Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism.
About United Nations Human Rights Council:
President– Nazhat Shameem Khan
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
