Stigma and the realization of the human rights to water and sanitation 2012, para. 62
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In order to combat stigma effectively, it is essential to address both its external and internalized dimensions. People who are stigmatized often feel embarrassment and shame, so they remain silent and are incapable of combatting stigma working against them. Where stigmatized people lack voice and agency, empowering them to know and claim their rights is crucial. This requires States to ensure access to information on rights and mechanisms to claim them, as well as to information on issues such as menstruation and hygiene. A positive self-perception can motivate others to also change their attitudes. Empowering people supports them in confronting, challenging and educating people who stigmatize them, as well as in holding the State and other actors accountable for discrimination and other human rights violations.
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Non-negotiated soft law
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Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation