Leprosy (Hansen disease) is one of the diseases targeted for elimination (defined as interruption of transmission) under the WHO Road map for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) 2021–2030. The Global Leprosy Strategy 2021–2030: towards zero leprosy sets out the vision of "Zero Leprosy"– zero infection and disease, zero disability, and zero stigma and discrimination – and is structured around four pillars: implementing integrated, country-owned zero leprosy road maps in all endemic countries; scaling up leprosy prevention alongside integrated active case detection; managing leprosy and its complications and preventing new disability; and combating stigma while ensuring respect for human rights.

To support countries in reaching these targets and to ensure the effective, evidence-based implementation of the Strategy, sustained technical and strategic advisory input is essential. The WHO Technical Advisory Group on Leprosy (TAG-Leprosy) acts as an advisory body to WHO on matters ranging from epidemiology, monitoring and implementation, and patient care, to prevention, research and development of new drugs, diagnostics and surveillance tools, and the delivery of interventions in coordination with other health programmes.