Independent Expert on the rights of persons with albinism

About the mandate

Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited condition which commonly results in the lack of melanin pigment in the hair, skin and eyes, causing vulnerability to sun exposure. The physical appearance of persons with albinism is often the object of erroneous beliefs and myths influenced by superstition, which foster their marginalization and social exclusion.

On 10 April 2015, resolution A/HRC/RES/28/6 was adopted without a vote by the Human Rights Council to establish the mandate of an Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism for a period of three years. It was extended on 4 April 2024 through resolution A/HRC/RES/55/18.

Learn more about albinism as a human rights issue and the mandate of the Independent Expert

Current mandate holder

Ms. Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond (Zambia) started her mandate as Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with Albinism on 1 August 2021. She has worked in the area of human rights for almost 20 years, most recently as a senior international human rights consultant, including on the area of human rights and albinism. 

Read Ms. Miti-Drummond’s full biography