Preliminary survey on the root causes of attacks and discrimination against persons with albinism 2016, para. 39
Paragraph
Paragraph text
The vast majority of attacks against persons with albinism have been carried out in order to harvest body parts. There are beliefs that drinking the blood of persons with albinism gives extra magical power or that it has magical properties and brings prosperity and good luck. Fingers of persons with albinism are reportedly worn as necklaces and amulets. Bones of persons with albinism are used to successfully mine for gold and other desirable minerals. Hands of persons with albinism are burned to ashes and mixed in a paste to cure strokes; blood of persons with albinism is used to boost vitality and intellectual capacity, as well as for political power and business. Hair has been touted as useful for agriculture. Genitals, breasts and placentas are used to cure infertility and create good luck.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
Harmful Practices
Health
Year
2016
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
IE Albinism, Report to the UNGA (2016), A/71/255, para. 39.