Author: velyunsky

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International Human Rights Day 2024: reality or illusion in the shadow of authoritarianism?

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 10, 2024

On December 10, the world celebrates International Human Rights Day, which reminds us of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. This document symbolizes humanity’s quest for freedom, equality, and dignity. In 2024, the theme of this day sounds like a call to action: “Our rights, Our future, Right now”. However, in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA), the events of recent years make us wonder: is the UDHR still a beautiful theory, far from real life?

The region is witnessing serious deviations from the principles of the declaration. Basic rights are under attack: freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, protection of vulnerable groups, including LGBTIQ+ people, and the work of civil society organizations. The influence of external forces, primarily russia, is strengthening authoritarian tendencies and suppressing democratic aspirations.

Georgia: the road from democratic progress to pressure and censorship

The situation in Georgia is deeply worrying. The law on “foreign agents” adopted on May 28, 2024, was a serious blow to freedom of speech and the work of non-profit organizations (NPOs). This law, which requires organizations that receive foreign funding to register as “foreign agents,” has created conditions for the suppression of civil society. Media and NPOs assisting key groups face new bureaucratic barriers, fines, and the threat of closure.

The LGBTIQ+ community has been particularly vulnerable. In 2023, radical groups disrupted the Tbilisi Pride parade and the authorities failed to prevent the violence. Moreover, in 2024, the Georgian Parliament passed anti-LGBTIQ+ laws masquerading as a defense of “family values.” These measures increase censorship, restrict the right to peaceful assembly, and set a dangerous precedent: the rights of any group can be violated under the pretext of “traditions.”

The protests that have swept the country since the 2024 parliamentary elections are a response to the authorities’ actions that threaten democratic foundations. Instead of protecting human rights, Georgia is increasingly under the influence of pro-Russian forces that undermine its European ambitions.

Kyrgyzstan: stifling civil society and fighting against equality

In Kyrgyzstan, the situation is no less alarming. The law “On Non-Profit Organizations” adopted in 2024 practically copies the russian approach to “foreign agents” by introducing the concept of a “foreign representative”. This step complicates the work of NPOs that depend on international funding to implement social projects.

In parallel, pressure on the LGBTIQ+ community is increasing in the country. The Law on “Traditional Social Values”, signed by the President in 2023, prohibits information that, in the opinion of the authorities, contradicts these values. Moreover, the Parliament’s refusal to pass an anti-discrimination law demonstrates a complete disregard for equality and human rights. Kyrgyzstan, previously considered one of the freer states of Central Asia, is losing this reputation. And its path increasingly resembles the russian scenario.

Human rights: the challenge of the present, the foundation of the future

The slogan of 2024 – “Our rights, Our future, Right now” – sounds especially acute in the context of human rights being threatened in EECA. The struggle for these rights is not only a task for individual countries but also a challenge for the international community.

The UDHR should not be a monument to history, but a living instrument of the struggle for freedom. Confronting authoritarian practices, defending civil society, and putting pressure on governments that support repression – these are the real steps to ensure that human rights are no longer an unattainable reality, the spread of authoritarianism is halted and the region is given back the chance for a stable and free future.

Violence on demand: how sex workers are victims of abuse in Serbia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 28, 2024

Marija (name changed), a young woman working in the sex industry, approached REActors for help by sharing her story of abuse. One day, while she was doing her job, she was approached by a man in a suit who offered her a sum of money for sexual services. After she named the price, he agreed and invited her to get into his car.

As soon as this happened, the man began to insult her, identifying himself as a police officer but not providing identification. He began locking the doors and then began physically abusing her by grabbing her hair and beating her. In the process, he stated that if Maria went to the police he would send her to jail, threatening to take her down.

At one point, the rapist simply threw the girl out of the car, but she managed to write down the license plate number. However, after the incident, the man found Maria and continued his threats, claiming that she should not report the incident as she would be arrested. This incident left the client deeply stressed and fearful, giving her no confidence to seek help from law enforcement.

The story told by the client is a prime example of the violence and manipulation that sex worker/s face when their safety and rights are threatened by those with power or influence. These situations also underscore the importance of creating a safe environment for sex worker/s and the necessary support from organizations working with this vulnerable community.

Such violence not only threatens physical safety but also confounds the victim, preventing them from fighting for their rights and safety. It is important to remember that every case of violence requires attention and action from law enforcement and community organizations.

If relatives become enemies: combating violence and stigma in Uzbekistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 27, 2024

Shakhnoza (name changed), a 25-year-old woman from Uzbekistan, sought help after years of abuse at the hands of her husband and his family. Her story is a tragic example of how violence can take devastating forms in relationships, with women finding it difficult to seek help or even escape the cycle of abuse.

Married at a young age, Shahnoza dreamed of having children but was unable to get pregnant for a long time. After a medical examination, doctors discovered she had HIV. This diagnosis was a turning point in her life. After learning about the diagnosis, her husband categorically refused to undergo HIV testing, which caused Shakhnoza anxiety and bewilderment.

Unexpectedly for her, regular beatings and insults from her mother-in-law began. The woman found herself in the captivity of her own family – her mother-in-law forcibly kept her, forbidding her to communicate with her relatives and even to leave the house. In this situation, Shakhnoza found herself isolated, without support, and in complete dependence on her mother-in-law. She was humiliated, her every step was controlled, and her mother-in-law started looking for another woman for her son, which emphasized the cruelty of what was happening.

However, Shahnoza decided to take a life-changing step. She sought help from REActors, who provided legal counseling. Thanks to this support, she was able to return to her parents and start rebuilding her life.

Each of us deserves to live without fear: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence global campaign launches

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 25, 2024

Every 10 minutes, a woman dies around the world. Her life is taken not by tragic accident or overwhelming force, but by the deliberate actions of those who should have been there to love and protect her. Nearly one in three women in the world (about 736 million people) has experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner or another person at least once in her life. This is not counting sexual harassment. For adolescents, the situation is even more alarming: one in four girls has experienced partner violence. As a result, they face long-term consequences: depression, anxiety disorders, unplanned pregnancies, STIs, and HIV.

Violence against women is an epidemic that permeates every culture, every country, every family. It is a global problem for which there is no reasonable excuse.

Women and girls are at risk where they should feel safe – at home. A place where one waits for warmth, support, and peace. But for millions of women around the world, home becomes a place of terror. Over 55% of homicides of women are committed by their intimate partners or family members. By comparison, only 12% of male homicides occur in the private sphere. Every year, approximately 89,000 women and girls around the world are killed by those who are supposed to be their protectors. These numbers are not just statistics. There are thousands of stories that might not exist if the world united to stop this cycle.

These statistics are shocking, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. Violence against women doesn’t always end in murder, but it starts with manifestations that many might consider “minor”: humiliation, manipulation, and control. But these are the same chains that bind women and often end in femicide – the intentional killing because of the victim’s gender.

As REAct statistics show, Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) face this problem particularly acutely. In our region, violence against women is a national catastrophe. It is found at all levels of society and in every sphere of life. In the EECA region, violence against women remains a large-scale and complex problem. Here, violence takes both traditional forms – domestic and sexual violence – and more modern ones, such as digital bullying.

Women living with HIV are often stigmatized and discriminated against, which increases their vulnerability to gender-based violence. They may face denial of medical services, blackmail, or violence from relatives or partners. In EECA, the level of stigma around HIV remains high, which exacerbates their situation.

LGBTIQ+ women experience double discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation/gender identity. This manifests itself in domestic violence, rejection by society, and lack of police protection. In some EECA countries, the criminalization of homosexuality and high levels of homophobia make access to assistance almost impossible.

Sex workers are in one of the most vulnerable positions due to the criminalization of their activities in most EECA countries. They are often subjected to violence by clients, pimps and police. Fear of exposure or arrest forces them to tolerate violence.

Drug use is often associated with economic dependence, violence, and exploitation. Women from this group tend to avoid seeking help for fear of arrest or stigmatization.

Vulnerable women require special attention in the global fight against violence. Their rights and safety must be prioritized in national strategies and international initiatives. Human rights-based approaches, inclusion, and decriminalization can significantly improve their situation.

But despite all the difficulties, there are examples of progress in the EECA region over the past few years:

– Introduction of legislative reforms in Uzbekistan: criminalization of domestic violence and other measures. In April 2023, Uzbekistan took an important step towards protecting women and children by adopting a law criminalizing domestic violence. Amendments to the country’s Criminal and Administrative Codes provide for stricter penalties for physical and sexual violence, including offenses against minors and persons with disabilities. The law eliminates the possibility of parole for sex offenders and introduces expanded protection orders for up to a year. An important element of the reforms is the prohibition of convicted sex offenders from engaging in the education and upbringing of children. Additional victim protection mechanisms are also being put in place, including social and legal support for women facing violence, especially in rural areas where patriarchal attitudes remain strong. However, activists note that the new laws still need to be fully implemented and cultural barriers to compliance must be overcome….

– Kazakhstan: discussions on the return of criminalization. In 2023, Kazakhstan saw an important change in legislation aimed at strengthening measures against domestic violence, namely the return of provisions punishing minor injury and battery as part of domestic violence, which had been removed from the Criminal Code in 2017. The law was initiated amid increased public pressure, including after a high-profile case involving the murder of a woman by her husband, a former national economy minister. The amendments provide for fines, compulsory labor, and arrests for offenders, as well as harsh measures for violence against children and inducement to suicide. In addition, preventive work with families has been strengthened. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan reported that in 2023, more than 87,000 protective orders were issued for victims of violence and about 15,000 special requirements for the behavior of offenders were established. The number of arrests for violations doubled.

However, such initiatives and changes at all levels need to happen on an ongoing basis in order to make a difference both in the region and to influence global statistics as a whole.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign, launched in 1991 by the Center for Global Women’s Leadership, has become a critical initiative in the fight against violence. From November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), millions of people around the world are raising their voices to remind us: that violence against women is a human rights violation. It is not just a personal tragedy; it is a societal problem. And combating it requires efforts at all levels. Here are the key steps:

Awareness. Spreading awareness of the problem is an important step. The more people understand the scope and impact of violence, the easier it is to bring attention to the problem.

Support for survivors. Women survivors need shelter, legal assistance, and emotional support.
Education. Teaching young people about respect, equality, and non-violence helps break the cycle of violence.
Legislation. Strengthening laws against violence and their strict enforcement protects women and punishment for perpetrators.
International solidarity. Bringing together governments, NGOs, activists, and citizens to stand up to violence globally.

Every woman who raises her voice against violence saves someone’s life. Every person who condemns violence and supports survivors makes the world a safer place. Violence can be stopped. It is important to remember: that equality is not a luxury, it is a right. Every woman, regardless of age, status, or country of residence, has the right to live freely, free from violence and fear.

Join the campaign, and take a step toward a world without violence:

Wear orange as a symbol of solidarity.
Participate in activities during the 16 Days of Activism.
Share on social media with the hashtags #NoExcuse and #OrangeTheWorld.
Support survivors of violence.

Every action is important. After all, violence is not just a problem for women. It’s a challenge to all of humanity.

Every woman deserves to live. Without fear. Without pain. Without violence.

Hate on the street: the battle for safety and respect in Albania

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 20, 2024

Elvira (name changed), a trans* woman living in N, was the victim of a violent attack that was motivated by transphobia. One evening, as she was returning home, a group of people approached her and started harassing her with derogatory, transphobic insults. Despite her attempts to avoid confrontation and quickly leave, the situation escalated rapidly.

The group surrounded the victim and the abuse became physical. The perpetrators continued to make derogatory comments, emphasizing the hateful nature of the attack related to her gender identity. The attackers left no room for doubt that it was transphobia that motivated the violence. As a result of the attack, the woman suffered serious injuries and had to seek medical attention and, REActors. At this point, the case is in their work.

This incident was a clear example of how trans* people, especially in countries with limited protection of LGBTIQ+ rights, are subjected to violence and abuse solely based on their gender identity. The attack, which was the result of outright hatred and bias, left deep trauma both physically and psychologically.

Such incidents emphasize the need to create safe spaces for trans* people and improve state policies to protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ communities. An important step towards a safe society is not only criminalizing such crimes but also educating the public to exclude all forms of violence and discrimination based on gender identity.

When love becomes a threat: How domestic violence in Tajikistan hides behind closed doors

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 1, 2024

Leyla (name changed) is a 29-year-old woman who has faced domestic violence for many years. She is married to a man who, she says, changed a long time ago. When Leila first married her husband, she was sure she had found her love. Her husband courted her beautifully, gave her expensive gifts, and bought her an apartment – everything seemed perfect. But years later, everything changed. Violence, humiliation, and insults became part of her daily life.

When the husband gets angry, he starts insulting the woman, swearing, and throwing objects at her. However, the worst thing, according to Leyla, is not the physical violence, but the fear she feels. Leyla is afraid to ask for anything, and cannot even talk to him calmly. And if he finds out that she has approached someone or complained, she will not feel well.

In addition, Leila believes that her husband has another woman, which adds even more tension to her already complicated life. She feels more vulnerable as she cannot seek help because of her position as a third wife. Leila married her husband against her parents’ wishes and now she feels her position is even more defenseless.

She contacted the REActors hotline after seeing the number on social media, but despite recognizing that her life was in danger, Leila did not know how to proceed or if the issue could be resolved.

Her decision to seek help is the first step towards liberation. Leila’s case will not be ignored further and the woman will be given the help she asks for.

A night meeting that became a nightmare: the story of a victim of violence in Moldova

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 18, 2024

Tatiana (name changed), a 30-year-old woman, approached the REActors with a story about a tragic incident that happened to her in N city. On that day, she felt unwell but decided to go out to a club. There she met three men with whom she socialized, but their behavior became aggressive and rude. Later, as she left the club, she felt her condition worsen and decided to return home, but as she approached the entranceway, the men followed her.

Without allowing her to enter the entryway, they grabbed her under the arm and forcibly placed her in a car. The men drove her to a deserted location where all three of them abused her and left her there. This egregious incident left her deeply traumatized and feeling defenseless. Although the client wished to remain anonymous as to the location of the incident, Tatiana reached out to REActors for help, with the hope that her story would help bring attention to such crimes.

This case emphasizes the importance of creating safe public spaces and making sure that women can feel protected and their rights are not violated. The abuse of women needs to be punished and publicly condemned to prevent the recurrence of such situations in the future.

Politics and LGBTIQ+ people: how hate rhetoric becomes a campaign tool in Moldova

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 4, 2024

In the run-up to the presidential elections in Moldova, society once again witnessed attempts by politicians to use hate rhetoric against the LGBTIQ+ community as a campaign tool. This time, former President Igor Dodon accused the non-governmental organization Genderdoc-M of filing a “criminal complaint” against him concerning his political statements. According to Dodon, this is related to his campaign promises to ban “LGBT propaganda” in schools and Chisinau.

On September 10, Igor Dodon published a message in which he claimed that Genderdoc-M accused him of inciting prejudice-based violence. The occasion was his statement on the inadmissibility of LGBTIQ+ propaganda in schools, which was part of his election promises. The former president said that his position expressed the opinion of the majority of teachers and parents, which made such statements acceptable in his political program.

However, as early as September 11, Angelica Frolova, administrative director of Genderdoc-M, responded to Dodon’s accusations, saying that all of the organization’s complaints against the former president had been filed long before this case. She noted that the statement referred to by Dodon does not refer to the current year and has not been documented by the organization recently. Thus, the conflicts between the NGO and Dodon refer to earlier complaints, which cast doubt on the relevance of the politician’s claims.

The politician is also actively using the LGBTIQ+ theme in his campaign rhetoric, claiming that after the presidential election, the government led by Maia Sandu intends to introduce quotas for the employment of LGBTIQ+ people in state institutions. These claims were made on his program “Live with Igor Dodon” on September 13, where he assured viewers that European partners were demanding that Moldova implement quotas for the LGBTIQ+ community.

However, these claims were quickly refuted by government spokesman Daniel Voda, who called Dodon’s words “false.” In his statement, Voda reminded us that political campaigns should be based on respect for citizens, not manipulation and misinformation. He also mentioned Dodon’s previous false claims about employment quotas for Syrians, foreigners, and other groups, which had no real basis.

Using the LGBTIQ+ theme as a tool to mobilize the electorate is not a new technique for politicians, especially those who appeal to conservative and homophobic sentiments in society. Political leaders often use such rhetoric to create an image of an “enemy” that allegedly threatens traditional values and national identity. In Moldova, where the topic of European integration is hotly debated, the issue of LGBTIQ+ rights often becomes a reason to divide society into “pro-European” and “pro-conservative” citizens.

It should be noted that the presidential election to be held on October 20 will be an important stage for Moldova’s future. Although Igor Dodon is not running, his party, the Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM), supports the candidacy of former Prosecutor General Alexandru Stoianoglo. In turn, Maia Sandu, the incumbent president and leader of the pro-European Action and Solidarity Party (PAS), will compete for the post again.

In an electoral race, the use of hate speech against the LGBTIQ+ community can be a serious challenge for a society striving for European integration and the building of a tolerant democratic state. Divisions in society based on prejudice and fear of imaginary threats can undermine trust in democratic processes and slow down the country’s path toward European human rights standards.

The example of Igor Dodon shows how hate rhetoric and manipulation can become a powerful tool in electoral struggles, especially against vulnerable groups such as the LGBTIQ+ community. It is important to remember that such discourse not only misinforms society but can also reinforce discrimination and violence. Society and political leaders must recognize the dangers of such rhetoric and strive for an open and constructive dialogue aimed at protecting the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of their identity or orientation.

When the right to safety is a privilege: the story of a trans* woman from Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 3, 2024

Arevik (name changed), a trans* woman from Armenia, faced aggression and violence while in a public place in N city. While on the street at night, she was targeted by a group of young men who started threatening her using harsh words, insults, and threats. One of them stated that “this is their territory” and they would not tolerate the presence of “such a perverted spoiled animal”.

The group of guys did not stop at words: they started dragging Arevik by her arms, pushing her, thus creating a real threat to her safety. At this point, Arevik decided to call REActor, and together they called the police.

After the intervention of the law enforcement agencies, the patrolmen detained the aggressors and they were given an educational talk. The offenders were released after writing an explanatory statement.

As much as it may seem like a step towards justice, this case highlights the serious problem of discrimination and violence against trans* people in Armenia. Although the police intervened, the outcome leaves many questions, especially in the context of how seriously the country takes the protection of community rights. It also raises the issue of the lack of training of law enforcement agencies in dealing with LGBTIQ+ people and the importance of creating more inclusive and protective mechanisms.

Bias and intimidation: cases of police pressure in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 21, 2024

The stories of Gulnara (name changed) and Askhat (name changed) show how police abuse and bias can lead to human rights violations, especially against people who use psychoactive substances.

Gulnara was on her way to a syringe exchange point (SEP) when she was stopped by police officers, citing her “inappropriate behavior.” Under this pretext, they searched her and searched her bag, where they found used syringes, which she was carrying for exchange.

The police began to insult her rudely and, despite the absence of a crime, forcibly took her to a narcological dispensary for a drug test. Although Gulnara did not violate the law, her rights to personal freedom and human dignity were seriously violated.

Another case involved Askhat, a representative of a community of people who use new psychoactive substances (NPS). He was returning home when he was stopped by police officers at the entrance of his house. They said that they had received a complaint from neighbors that Askhat was running a drug den at his home and that people were coming to use drugs.

The conversation was aggressive and intimidating: the police officers called him names and threatened him with imprisonment for creating a brothel. Askhat was shocked, as such accusations were false – he lives with his sister, and such incidents have never happened in his apartment. The police promised to search his apartment and said that they would “definitely find drugs”, but Askhat explained that he had no keys and needed to wait for his sister. The police officers said they would return later to search.

These stories of Gulnara and Askhat show how police bias and abuse of power can violate citizens’ rights. Despite the absence of evidence or violations of the law, they faced insults, intimidation, and threats, which emphasize the need for greater oversight of police actions to protect the rights of vulnerable groups.

REAct Communiqué: Condemning the murder of Kesaria Abramidze and the adoption of an anti-LGBTIQ+ legislative package in Georgia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 19, 2024

REAct expresses its deepest sorrow and outrage over the brutal murder of Kesaria Abramidze, a prominent transgender model and activist, and strongly condemns the passage of anti-LGBTIQ+ legislation in Georgia that threatens the rights and freedoms of key groups.

“The death of Kesaria Abramidze is a clear indication that violence and discrimination against vulnerable communities in Georgia has reached a critical level. Her death, amidst the numerous incidents of violence she has been subjected to over the years, demonstrates how dangerous the climate of intolerance and disregard for the rights of transgender people and the LGBTIQ+ community as a whole is becoming. We call for an immediate, objective investigation into this crime and for those responsible to be brought to justice.” – said Tetiana Deshko, Director of International Programs, Alliance for Public Health.

Kesaria’s tragic death occurred against the backdrop of the anti-LGBTIQ+ legislative package passed by the Georgian Parliament on September 17. This package, hiding behind the rhetoric of protecting “family values,” not only violates the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community but also restricts the basic freedoms of all citizens. The adopted law strengthens censorship and impedes the right to peaceful assembly and demonstration. This opens a dangerous precedent in which the rights of any group can be easily violated, setting the stage for wider repression in the future.

32 non-governmental organizations, as well as the Venice Commission, have condemned the package of laws, stressing that it does not address the real problems faced by families and minors in Georgia – such as poverty, inflation, increased emigration, and problems with access to basic services. The legislation is aimed at manipulating public opinion and creating barriers to Georgia’s European integration. The adoption of these laws is a step backward in the democratic development of the country and demonstrates the authorities’ refusal to fulfill international obligations to protect human rights.

“We appeal to the Georgian authorities to cancel this legislative package and ensure the protection of the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. These repressive measures, accompanied by an increase in violence, demonstrate systemic human rights problems in Georgia, which requires decisive and immediate action.” – emphasizes Victoria Kalyniuk, REAct System Coordinator for the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region, Alliance for Public Health.

REAct expresses solidarity with Georgia’s LGBTIQ+ community and all those affected by this legislation and continues to stand up for the rights and dignity of key groups in the country and the region.

On the brink of despair: a woman’s struggle against violence and state bureaucracy in Azerbaijan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 13, 2024

Hava (name changed) is a 28-year-old woman from Azerbaijan who has been trapped in domestic violence for many years. She lived with her husband for six years, of which almost every day was an ordeal for her. He beat her regularly, and the woman endured constant psychological abuse. Despite this, Hava went to shelters twice, but each time she reconciled, trying to keep her family together for the sake of her children.

During these years, the woman repeatedly sought help from the executive authorities, but changes in her life were minimal. After contacting the REActors, a decision was made to contact the executive authorities again, asking them to intervene and help the family.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the response of the authorities was alarming. Representatives of the executive authorities came to the institution to remove Hawa’s children. However, when the REActors asked for documents to support the need to remove the children, they were unable to provide any information that could justify their actions.

The situation became even more tense when Hava was discharged from the hospital after another outbreak of violence. Executive officials insisted that the children be hospitalized to check their health. At this point, despite the pressure, REActors were able to defend the mother’s rights and prevented the children from being taken away without proper documentation.

Refusal not according to the law: fighting discrimination in the kindergarten of Uzbekistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 2, 2024

Despite advances in modern medicine and access to information, people living with HIV continue to face prejudicial attitudes. One such story is the case of Maria (name changed), a woman living with HIV, whose child was denied admission to kindergarten because of her diagnosis.

Maria was shocked when the kindergarten administration did not agree to accept her child, citing possible “risks” for other children. Maria realized the refusal was based on fears and misinformation and decided not to let it go unchallenged. She sought help from the REActor, who immediately intervened and organized a meeting with the kindergarten administration and representatives of the local education department. At the meeting, he explained the main myths about HIV and its transmission, dispelling the fears of the staff. He emphasized that children born to mothers living with HIV do not pose a threat to other children and should have the right to full participation in the educational process. In addition, the REActor conducted a training for the kindergarten staff, explaining the importance of not discriminating based on HIV status.

Thanks to the REActor’s competent work, Maria’s child was accepted to the kindergarten and a training program on HIV and non-discrimination was introduced for all preschool staff in the region. This case showed that even in difficult situations justice can be achieved.

It is important to remember that people living with HIV have the same rights as everyone else, and discrimination based on HIV status is unacceptable. And REActors are always ready to help those who face violations of their rights, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Original article source (in Russian)

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Uzbekistan

Response stories

Defending equal rights in Kazakhstan: successful patient advocacy at OAT

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 23, 2024

The story of Alina (name changed), a patient diagnosed with trophic ulcers, demonstrates how the bias and lack of awareness of medical professionals can become a serious obstacle to quality treatment. Alina was admitted to the hospital under a government quota but encountered a problem when she told her primary care physician that she was a participant in a substitution therapy program (OAT).

Alina honestly admitted that she was on the drug treatment register and participating in OAT, asking for permission to leave the hospital in the morning to get her life-saving medication, as it was not available on hand. The doctor reacted extremely harshly, calling her a “drug addict” and threatening to discharge her, instead of showing professionalism and understanding.

Finding herself in a difficult situation, when she needed both urgent medical help and support in her addiction treatment, Alina turned to REActor for help. He quickly contacted the patient support expert at the hospital, described the situation, and asked for action. In response, the hospital promptly allocated an hour between treatments for Alina to receive the drug. Moreover, a meeting was organized with her attending physician, which was attended by the expert, the REActor, and the physician supervising the OAT program at the medical institution.

During the meeting, the doctor was informed that discrimination against patients is unacceptable. The expert reminded us that OAT is a legal and effective treatment method that has been successfully used for more than 50 years, especially important for HIV and AIDS prevention among opioid-dependent patients. Thanks to REActor’s active support, Alina was able to get help and protect her rights.

This story also underscores the importance of educating healthcare providers about programs like OAT. Awareness and respect for patients are key steps towards eliminating discrimination in medicine and creating a level playing field for all who need treatment.

From punishment to support: how HIV jurisprudence is changing in Tajikistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 20, 2024

Article 125 of Tajikistan’s Criminal Code criminalizes HIV transmission, which is a serious concern, especially for women living with the virus. Endangering HIV infection is punishable by imprisonment for up to two years. If transmission occurs, the penalty is increased to five years, and in cases involving more than one person or minors, to ten years.

The biggest problem is the fact that the majority of those convicted under Article 125 are women. Many of them are subjected to domestic violence and stigmatization and face discrimination in society. Fear of disclosure of HIV status and subsequent criminal prosecution often prevents them from protecting their rights and receiving the support they need. Instead of accessing treatment and psychological support, these women face harsh criminal penalties.

An example of this is the case of Gulzira (name changed), who was convicted under Article 125, Part 1 for “endangering HIV infection” and sentenced to one year of imprisonment in a general regime colony. The state prosecutor demanded a harsher sentence of 1.5 years.

Another case concerns Dinora (name changed), sentenced to one year in prison under the same article, despite the prosecution’s request to increase the sentence to two years due to her previous convictions under this article.

Simon (name changed) was convicted under Article 125, paragraph 2, for actual transmission of HIV. He was sentenced to three years imprisonment and a fine of 10,000 somonis. Additionally, he was convicted of illegal seizure of a land plot, for which he was fined 17,000 TJS. However, by failing to pay this fine, Somon received a cumulative punishment. The prosecutor demanded that he be imprisoned for 4 years and 6 months.

The situation is still bleak. However, in December 2023, an important development occurred: the Plenum of the Supreme Court of Tajikistan adopted a decision calling on courts to take into account international standards when considering HIV-related cases. Central to this decision is the concept of “Undetectable = Untransmissible”, according to which people on antiretroviral therapy who have an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to others. This ruling was an important step towards decriminalizing HIV transmission and changing the approach to jurisprudence – shifting the focus from criminal prosecution to providing health care and support to people living with HIV. It protects their rights and prevents stigmatization by emphasizing the need for adequate treatment and care rather than punishment.

The introduction of the change in jurisprudence was an important step in the defense of people living with HIV. However, more needs to be done on the road to justice. It is hoped that the final abolition of Article 125 of Tajikistan’s Criminal Code will be the next step and that outdated norms that only reinforce discrimination and stigmatization will be replaced by modern approaches based on respect for human rights and international standards.

Probation or punishment: how inspectors in Kazakhstan prevent re-socialization

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 15, 2024

In Kazakhstan, discrimination against former prisoners remains one of society’s hidden but acute problems. Even after serving their sentence and being released, many face unjustified obstacles, humiliation, and rough treatment from probation service representatives. A criminal record becomes an obstacle to a normal life, even if a person sincerely seeks re-socialization.

Askar (name changed) was released from prison at the request of an NGO. His release was a long-awaited event, as he was finally able to return to his family. After a long separation from his wife and child, he managed to restore relations with them by taking a resocialization course at a crisis center. Askar decided to move to another neighborhood to start his life anew, closer to his family, in a calmer and more supportive environment.

Askar understood that he was obliged to comply with all the conditions of probation, so he notified in advance the inspector who supervised him after his release. But the inspector’s response was far from professional. In response to the notification of the move, the inspector stated that he had not given permission to change his place of residence and that he “did not have time to chase every prisoner all over the city”. Askar’s file was reprimanded and the inspector threatened that if he violated the conditions again, he could be returned to the correctional facility.

Askar was completely desperate. He had followed the law and all the requirements of probation but faced harsh and unfair treatment. Thanks to REActor’s support, Askar was able to understand the situation and prove his case. REActor accompanied him to a meeting with the inspector, where it was shown that all of Askar’s actions were legal and that moving with his family was an important part of his re-socialization, reducing the risk of recidivism.

But even though in the end the permission to change the place of residence was obtained, the mark about the alleged violation remained in Askar’s file.

Another case occurred with Ilyas (name changed), who was convicted of distributing narcotic drugs and served his sentence in a general regime colony. After his release on parole, he regularly checked in with the probation department. Every week he came at a strictly scheduled time to meet with his supervisor. But one day, on June 3, 2024, when Ilyas arrived for his check-in at the scheduled time, his supervisor was not present.

The probation officer on duty told Ilyas to wait. More than an hour passed, and realizing that being late for work could cost him termination, Ilyas again asked for the inspector to be called. However, the inspector was still not there, and without waiting, Ilyas left in order not to lose his job.

In the evening of the same day, after 8 p.m., the inspector suddenly appeared at Ilyas’s house. There was a loud shout in the entrance: “Why didn’t you, convict, come to the mark?! I’ll send you back to the colony for disorderly conduct!” Ilyas tried to explain the situation, but the inspector refused to listen to him, accusing him of disregarding the rules. The accusations continued when the inspector stated that Ilyas had “red eyes” and demanded that he immediately go for an examination. “I will inform the narcology department that you are using drugs again,” the inspector added, grabbing Ilyas by his clothes and trying to pull him outside.

In the course of this confrontation, the inspector tore Ilyas’s T-shirt, and neighbors came out to the noise. Witnesses were outraged by the inspector’s rude behavior, and under the pressure of public outrage, the inspector let Ilyas go and left.

This incident was a heavy blow for Ilyas. Not only was he subjected to public humiliation, but he again faced the threat of being returned to the colony, despite his efforts to comply with the conditions of probation. The relationship with the inspector who was supposed to assist him in the re-socialization process turned into an open confrontation.

Both cases demonstrate the systemic problems faced by former prisoners in Kazakhstan:

– Excess of authority and bad faith of probation inspectors.

– Violation of the rights of former convicts.

– Social stigmatization and pressure.

Discrimination of people with criminal records in Kazakhstan is a problem not only at the level of society but also at the level of state bodies that are supposed to help former prisoners on their way to a normal life. The situations faced by Askar and Ilyas show how poorly organized probation services and abuse by individual staff can jeopardize the resocialization process itself. Urgent reforms of the probation system, improved qualifications of inspectors, and stricter monitoring of the rights of former convicts are urgently needed. Without these measures, discrimination will continue to be a barrier to successful integration into society.

Confronting neglect: how a woman sought justice in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 8, 2024

Elena (name changed), a young mother living with HIV, faced discrimination and neglect at a polyclinic after moving to a new neighborhood. With a six-month-old baby who had digestive problems, she urgently needed baby food. However, after contacting the new pediatrician, she was denied it.

At first, the doctor explained the refusal by the lack of food at the moment and offered to come back later. But during the next visit, Elena heard a new refusal: according to the doctor, the nutrition in the polyclinic is limited, and according to the documents from the previous medical facility, she had already received what she was entitled to.

When Elena tried to explain that she was entitled to other amounts of food due to the child’s condition, the doctor reacted with obvious disdain: “I know your case, you should have thought when you were going to give birth with such problems. You have already received your allotted amount. If you don’t have enough, go to the AIDS Center or buy it yourself.”

Elena was shocked by such rude words and blatant discrimination. Realizing that she could not stand aside, she turned to REActors for help. They not only advised her on her rights but also offered to accompany her to the clinic for further action.

Together with the REActor, they approached the management of the medical facility. Elena told her story, and the management expressed indignation at the doctor’s behavior. The pediatrician was summoned for a conversation in the presence of Elena and the REActor. The management reminded the doctor of the legislation concerning protection against discrimination and that such treatment of patients was unacceptable.

As a result, Elena was given baby food in full. The management of the polyclinic apologized and assured that such cases would not happen again.

This story showed Elena and other mothers that it is important to fight for their rights and not to be afraid to report injustice. Her case was an example of how determination and support can help to overcome discrimination in the health care system and achieve respectful treatment.

The right to live without fear: how REActors protect people living with HIV in Uzbekistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 5, 2024

In modern society, despite the high level of awareness and progress in medicine, people living with HIV still face discrimination. Unfortunately, such cases occur even among neighbors, friends, and colleagues. However, the help of REActors helps people to overcome such difficulties.

Alena (name changed) is a young woman living with her mother. Both of them are women living with HIV, who have been taking the necessary therapy for many years and leading a full life. One day, their neighbor overhears a conversation that mentions the family’s HIV status. Instead of showing support, the neighbor began to insult Alena and her mother, threatening to tell other residents of the house.

Alena was at a loss and did not know how to protect herself and her mother. She turned to REActor for support. He met with Alyona and her mother to talk about the rights of people living with HIV and to discuss possible actions. Together they decided to speak to the neighbor.

During the meeting, the REActor explained to the neighbor in detail that HIV is not transmitted through domestic transmission and reminded her of the laws that protect people with this status from discrimination. He also emphasized that disclosure of others’ HIV status and continued threats could result in legal consequences, including administrative penalties. After the explanatory conversation, the neighbor realized her mistake and promised to stop insulting her and not to spread information about the HIV status of Alyona and her mother.

Alena’s story shows how important the role of REActors is in protecting the rights of people living with HIV. Their help is not only in legal support but also in spreading knowledge that helps to reduce fears and stereotypes in society. People living with HIV have the same rights as everyone else and any discrimination based on HIV status is unacceptable. This case helped not only to protect Alena’s rights but also to bring important knowledge to other people.

Original article source (in Russian)

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