A/HRC/35/38 by leprosy and their family members. It is therefore highly recommended that a special procedure be created under the auspices of the Human Rights Council to examine the human rights situation of persons affected by leprosy and their family members and to follow up, monitor and report on measures taken and progress made by States in the effective implementation of the principles and guidelines. 82. In conjunction with the proposed creation of a special procedure mandate, awareness-raising activities should be continued within the United Nations human rights forums in order to promote the wide dissemination and to deepen the understanding of the principles and guidelines in States and all relevant stakeholders with a view to creating a conducive environment in which a special procedure mandate holder could play a pivotal role towards the effective implementation of the principles and guidelines. In that respect, it is recommended that the Human Rights Council encourage OHCHR, in cooperation with States, relevant international organizations such as WHO as well as concerned NGOs, to organize seminars, conferences and side events on leprosy and leprosy-related discrimination and ensure substantial active participation by persons affected by leprosy and their family members. 17