Acessibilidade / Reportar erro

The principle of non-discrimination and non-stigmatization: reflections on leprosy

Abstract

This article is based on Article 11 of the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights, which addresses the principle of non-discrimination and non-stigmatization. The paper discusses the concepts of discrimination, stigma and structural violence, analyzing the specific case of leprosy from the viewpoint of bioethics and human rights. The research also considers the fact that Brazil is the second country most affected by the disease. The conclusion stresses the importance of this declaration as a theoretical and practical instrument to address the social exclusion of people in this situation.

Bioethics; Human rights; Social stigma; Social discrimination; Leprosy

Conselho Federal de Medicina SGAS 915, lote 72, CEP 70390-150, Tel.: (55 61) 3445-5932, Fax: (55 61) 3346-7384 - Brasília - DF - Brazil
E-mail: bioetica@portalmedico.org.br