Tag: Discrimination

News

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.

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.

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.

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.

Resisting discrimination: a new chapter in the struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 20, 2024

The LGBTQIA+ community in Kazakhstan is going through a difficult and tense period. Late last year, a local NGO published a social video on Instagram featuring queer couples, which attracted public attention, garnering over 6,400 views. The video resonated widely, receiving both positive feedback and negative comments, many of which contained hate speech.

In May 2024, a petition entitled “We are against open and hidden propaganda of LGBT in the Republic of Kazakhstan!” appeared on the portal “E-Petition.kz”. The initiative was authored by the anti-gender group “Kazakhstan Union of Parents”, which previously actively opposed vaccination during the pandemic, as well as the law on domestic violence and tougher punishment for bullying. The petition gathered 50,000 signatures in a short period – less than two weeks – the required number for it to be considered by the Ministry of Culture and Information. The rapid mobilization of signatures raised questions, as according to eyewitness reports and screenshots, civil servants and quasi-government employees were coerced into signing the petition along with another initiative to ban gambling among officials. One queer activist noted that the surge in signature-gathering activity took place during working hours, which heightened suspicions.

After the petition was accepted for review, a working group began to form to discuss its implications. Many LGBTQIA+ activists, human rights defenders, and lawyers applied to join the group. However, according to the authorities, due to the limited submission deadline – only 10 days – and technical reasons, a significant number of applicants were not selected. As a result, of the 51 people included in the working group, more than 40 supported the adoption of the petition, while only 7 opposed it.

The first meeting of the working group was held on June 21, and the process continued through early August. At these meetings, supporters of the petition actively used hate speech and discriminatory language. Even though the petition violated several international conventions on civil and political rights, the majority of the group’s participants were in favor of its adoption.

Against this backdrop, the LGBTQIA+ community and human rights defenders mobilized. Organizations (including those with national REActors) actively assisted victims by engaging the media and international partners, as well as providing legal advice on how to file complaints and challenge the petition through administrative procedures. Although most members of the working group supported the discriminatory measures, activists and human rights defenders united to form a strong front of opposition.

The petition drew attention to the problem of discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people in Kazakhstan, becoming an important catalyst for further struggle for their rights. This story demonstrates how the unity and determination of activists can help to counter the tide of discrimination and stand up for the rights of people. While the final results of the fight are not yet known, one thing is clear – the LGBTQIA+ community is not alone, and it has strong support.

Overcoming violence and bias due to HIV status: the story of Gularus from Tajikistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 11, 2024

Gularus (name changed), a 40-year-old woman from Tajikistan living with HIV, faced discrimination and abuse from her family. An unemployed, divorced mother of three, she was forced to live with her parents and the families of her younger brothers. However, instead of support, she endured daily humiliation and violence that became an integral part of her life.

Gularus’ family, upon learning of her HIV status, began to insult and humiliate her systematically. They called her “AIDS patient” and called her contagious. Due to the fear of the disease and lack of knowledge about HIV, her family forbade her to have contact with her children, who in turn were not even allowed to enter her room. In addition, strict rules were imposed in the house: Gularus could not sit at the common table with the rest of the family, had to use separate dishes, and was not allowed access to the common bathroom.

In addition to discrimination, the woman was a victim of physical violence. When she asked her younger brother to use an iron, he beat her. An additional source of pressure came from her brother’s wife, who insisted on evicting Gularus and her children.

Despite the constant humiliation and violence, the woman tolerated it for the sake of her children, who were in the same environment. However, she did not know how to protect her rights and improve her family situation, so she sought help from REActors.

The REActors provided Gularus with comprehensive support. Firstly, they provided her with psycho-emotional support, which enabled her to gain the inner strength to fight for her rights. They also explained her rights as a woman living with HIV and how she could protect herself from discrimination. Gularus was invited to the organization’s office, where she received consultations with a coordinator, a psychologist, and a lawyer. The specialists also suggested that she participate in a support group where she could communicate with other people living with HIV and receive useful advice and moral support.

Although Gularus had the option of filing a report with law enforcement, she chose not to do so for fear of escalating conflict within her family. Instead, she agreed to a mediation meeting with the family with the participation of the REActorand her family members. During this meeting, the family was provided with accurate information about HIV, its treatment, and the concept of “H=H” (Undetectable = Untransmissible). This principle states that a person with an undetectable viral load taking antiretroviral therapy cannot transmit the virus to others. It was emphasized that prejudice towards people living with HIV was based on ignorance, and the family had to realize that their actions not only violated the rights of Gularus but could have legal consequences.

Special attention was paid to the need for emotional and moral support from the family. The speakers also explained that illegal disclosure of HIV status and violation of the rights of people living with HIV are punishable by law. At the end of the meeting, Gularus was given the contact information of the Women and Family Committee hotline for further support and assistance.

Although Gularus’ situation remained difficult, the first step towards resolution had been taken: her family received accurate information about HIV and began to realize the importance of changing attitudes.

Confronting harassment: a disturbing incident in Albania

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 22, 2024

In the late hours of the night, Elira (name changed), a transgender girl, was walking through the area N in her city. It was a time when the streets were quiet, and the usual hustle and bustle of the city had died down. As she walked, an unknown man noticed her and approached.

Initially, the perpetrator sought sexual favors from Elira. When she refused, the situation quickly escalated. The man’s demeanor changed, and he began to threaten and intimidate her. His words and actions were so severe that Elira was left in a terrible emotional state, visibly shaken and distressed.

Recognizing the seriousness of the incident, Elira reached out for help, and her case was promptly taken up by the REActors. The incident details were meticulously documented. The case is currently being resolved, with the REActors working diligently to ensure that Elira receives the justice and support she deserves.

This incident highlights the dangers and emotional trauma that LGBTIQ+ individuals, like Elira, can face simply for being themselves. It underscores the urgent need for greater protection, support, and awareness to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities in our society.

Navigating stigma in healthcare: the case from North Macedonia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 21, 2024

Aleksandar (name changed), from North Macedonia, who is living with HIV and has an undetectable viral load due to antiretroviral therapy (ART), was referred to a gastroenterohepatology clinic because of long-standing gastritis problems.

During the initial consultation, the gastroenterologist took Aleksandar’s medical history and determined that a colonoscopy was necessary to investigate his gastritis issues further. However, when Aleksandar informed the doctor about his ART regimen and undetectable viral load, the doctor reconsidered and decided to prescribe oral medication instead. The doctor suggested that it would be better to attempt to resolve the problem with tablets first. He advised Aleksandar that if the tablet therapy did not help within a month, then a colonoscopy would be required. The doctor pointed out that a colonoscopy could not be performed at their clinic because of Aleksandar’s HIV status. Instead, he recommended that the procedure should be done at the Infectious Disease Clinic, citing that such interventions had been performed there in the past.

After a month of tablet therapy, Aleksandar’s symptoms persisted. He was informed that the Infectious Disease Clinic no longer performed colonoscopies. Faced with this situation, Aleksandar decided to undergo a colonoscopy at a private health facility without disclosing his HIV status.

Protecting your rights and dignity: supporting a client of OST in Ukraine

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 19, 2024

Lyubov (name changed) is a woman living with HIV who used to inject drugs in the past. She is in a civil marriage with a man who is also HIV-positive and has a history of substance use. Both are patients of the OST program. On their way home from the drop-in center, where they had received self-administered medication, the couple was stopped by police officers. They began to humiliate them, treat them rudely, pick their pockets, and search them without any reason.

Although the clients informed the police that they were taking OST and showed all the necessary documents, no one listened to them, and the couple was taken to the police station. The woman called the organization. Upon hearing about such illegal actions of the police, the REActor and a social worker of the organization came to the defense of the couple. They contacted the police by phone with the doctor who had prescribed the drugs. The doctor explained that everything was legal and that the patients had no problems with taking the drugs. After that, the couple was released.

After coming to the organization with words of gratitude, the client refused to seek legal assistance because she did not believe that the police officers would be punished. She was also offered counseling by the organization’s psychologist and group training to restore her psycho-emotional state.

Justice and dignity: a story of a woman living with HIV in Uzbekistan standing up for her rights

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 14, 2024

This story happened to Madina (name changed), a young woman, 40 years old, a representative of the community of people living with HIV, working in a store. One of her colleagues, having learned about her positive HIV status, started spreading the information among all employees. Soon the store manager found out about it and decided to fire Madina without paying her money, claiming that she could have infected everyone during her work.

The woman sought help from a REActor who provided her with counseling, after which she decided to write a statement complaining about the unjustified dismissal. The REActor together with a police officer gave a preventive talk to the store manager and staff about people with HIV status. As a result, the management paid all the money due under the contract.

Madina decided not to return to her previous job and found a new one. This case shows the importance of determination in fighting for one’s rights and against discrimination.

Threats and cyberbullying against a non-binary person in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 5, 2024

An incident that occurred last year and had a continuation in early 2024 related to Aruzhan (name changed). They are 21 years old, non-binary person, LGBTIQ+ activist. A university student saw Aruzhan’s recent posts regarding their civic activities and the attacks associated with them. This student, who was part of a group that had previously cyberbullying and threatening Aruzhan with violence because of their participation in a Pride Flag community event, began posting insults and threats again in a closed group on Telegram under an anonymous nickname.

The insults included derogatory terms and phrases, as well as threats of violence, such as “I’m itching to smack him in the back alley”. Aruzhan’s friend who was a member of the group forwarded screenshots of the messages. The client, despite the fact that they were now out of the attacker’s reach, were very worried about their safety and feared that they might be found and harmed.

This situation is an example of cyber-bullying and threats that violate the human rights to safe existence and protection from discrimination, in particular against LGBTIQ+ persons, and can also have significant psychological and physical consequences.

To protect their rights, Aruzhan sought the help of REActors. In response to the threats and cyberbullying, the REActors prepared and wrote a complaint to the university administration. Cyberbullying and threats of violence are prohibited by law and should be prosecuted. It is important that educational institutions and other institutions protect their students from such actions and create a safe environment for all, regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation.

Violation of rights and lack of assistance: a case of discrimination in Moldova

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 4, 2024

Alisa (name changed) contacted the National REActors by phone, asking for help because she was feeling unwell due to substance use. After speaking with the girl, it was recommended to call an ambulance for medical services. On the advice of the REActors, her boyfriend called the paramedics. However, instead of providing prompt assistance, police officers arrived and started to draw up a protocol. As a result, Alisa was fined 1500 lei (85 USD). To her indignation and explanations about her inability to pay the fine, the police officers replied that they could have issued a fine of 5000 lei (284 dollars).

In this case, REActors filed a complaint with the Equality Council to establish discrimination. As a result, the situation was resolved in favor of the client, the fine was challenged and Alisa was exempted from paying it.

This case highlights the need to raise awareness of the rights of key groups and the importance of standing up for their rights regardless of pressure.

Ethics in question: a case of discrimination in Azerbaijan medicine

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 3, 2024

This case raises important questions about professional ethics, equality, and respect for every patient, regardless of their medical status.

Artur (name changed) addressed the national REActors of Azerbaijan. His story began with an ordinary visit to the dentist, which turned into a series of unpleasant events. The man went to the dentist because his tooth had broken. He hoped for quick and quality help. The doctor took measurements and explained that the only would be ready in a few days. Arthur made an advance payment for the work.

A few days later, the man returned for the finished clay. To his surprise, the dentist said that it was ready, but refused to install it. The reason why the dentist did not want to complete the work was the following: while waiting for the only to be ready, Artur shared with him that on a particular day, he needed to pick up his ART because he was a representative of the community of people living with HIV. The man tried to return the money, but his requests were ignored and he was chased out of the office. In desperation and not knowing where to turn for justice, Artem decided to tell his story to the national REActors of Azerbaijan. The case was taken up by them to achieve justice and solve the client’s problem.

Defending the right to medical care in Ukraine

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 20, 2024

Natalia (name changed) appealed to the documentarian with a complaint against an oncologist who refused to provide medical services. The woman said that she had been referred by her doctor to an oncology clinic for examination, having an electronic referral. At the oncologist’s appointment, she verbally informed him of her HIV-positive status. The doctor refused to conduct an examination and recommended that she see a doctor at the AIDS Center.

The REActor met with the deputy chief physician to discuss the violation of her client’s rights to medical care by the hospital staff member. After listening to the situation, the deputy agreed that the patient’s rights had been violated and had a conversation with the oncologist. After that, Natalia made an appointment for a second visit.

At the appointment, the oncologist conducted the necessary examination and testing. The client received the necessary medical care, which she was initially denied, and can now continue her treatment according to the established plan.

Solidarity and action: International AIDS Candlelight Memorial

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 19, 2024

International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is held annually on the third Sunday of May in many countries around the world. This day was first celebrated in 1983 in the American city of San Francisco. At that time, a symbol of the movement against this disease appeared – a bright red ribbon attached to clothing and colorful quilts made of fabric scraps in memory of people who died prematurely because of AIDS. The red ribbon was created in 1991 by California artist Frank Moore. Every year on this day, people around the world pin it to their clothes to express solidarity with those affected by AIDS and to support efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.

According to the latest UNAIDS statistics, approximately 40 million people are living with HIV worldwide. Thanks to advances in modern medicine, HIV infection has become a manageable chronic disease: antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows people with HIV to live full lives. Nevertheless, in 2022, AIDS will claim the lives of 600,000 people worldwide. The situation with HIV remains particularly challenging in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region. According to UNAIDS, about 1.7 million people are living with HIV, and in recent years there has been an increase in new infections, with ART coverage available to only about 60% of those in need. Despite the existence of treatment and national strategies to ensure access to ART, many barriers remain in EECA that limit ART coverage and lead to an increase in the number of new HIV cases. The main causes of this phenomenon include:

– Stigma and discrimination: high levels of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV discourage many from seeking medical care. People fear disclosure of their HIV status and negative consequences, which prevents timely testing and initiation of treatment. For example, this year in Kazakhstan, REActors recorded a case of a woman disclosing her status in one of the city hospitals. Nursing staff were instructed to put bracelets with personal data, including information on HIV status, on patients’ arms. After investigating the situation, the REActor filed a complaint with the chief physician of the hospital. As a result, an immediate order was issued to remove the confidential information from the bracelets, and the head of the department was reprimanded and then fired due to multiple previous violations, including disregard for patients’ rights. In North Macedonia, an attempt was made to prevent a man living with HIV from continuing to work in his position at a city hospital because of his status. Thanks to the work of national REActors, two complaints were filed: one with the director of the hospital where the man works, and one with the public Health Insurance Fund. As a result, the man was allowed to return to work and his issue has now been fully resolved.

– Limited access to health services: In some countries in the region, health services, including HIV testing and access to ART, are underdeveloped or difficult to access, especially in remote and rural areas.

– Information deficit: lack of information and education on HIV/AIDS leads to many people being unaware of treatment options and the importance of timely testing, as well as the disease itself. In Uzbekistan, a couple was found to be HIV-positive while preparing documents for a civil registry office. This fact, which had not been previously registered, was unauthorized disclosed by medical professionals, causing rumors and condemnation in the surrounding society. National REActors provided comprehensive support to future spouses, including counseling, information, psychological, and legal assistance (they were helped to protect their rights and deal with the responsibility of violators for improper disclosure of confidential information).

– Economic barriers: financial constraints and lack of resources make it difficult to ensure stable and widespread access to ART. In some countries, financial support from international donors is declining, which affects treatment availability or slows down the implementation of effective HIV programs.

These factors combine to create a complex situation in which, even with the availability of programs and the willingness of states to provide treatment, a significant proportion of the population remains unassisted. Greater intersectoral collaboration, increased awareness and reduced stigmatization, and improved access to and quality of health services are needed. An important aspect to improve the situation is to draw public attention to the problem, as on the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial. Let us remember those who are no longer with us and support those who can be helped!

Empowering equality: fighting discrimination against HIV in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 14, 2024

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Alen (name changed) reached out to the NGO “Partnerships in Health”, about his positive HIV status (with which he has lived for 13 years). His disclosure to his employer led to adverse treatment, including an abrupt halt in his work attendance without explanation. Initially, his department head indicated work was unnecessary, assuring him of continued salary, a situation enduring 13 years, leaving Alen increasingly isolated and eager to return to work.

Attempting to resume work and address potential social exclusion, Alen contacted his employer, only to be instructed to stay home, contrary to his hopes. After 20 years of service, the company mandated a disability pension assessment without specific reasons. Despite a medical certificate affirming his job fitness, regardless of his HIV status, Alen faces potential discrimination and ambiguity regarding the disability assessment and his workplace exclusion, raising concerns about employment law and anti-discrimination regulations.

To confront these issues, “Partnerships in Health” commits to supporting Alen comprehensively by engaging in legal representation. An attorney will offer legal counsel and serve as Alen’s representative in related legal proceedings to resolve employment issues effectively. This proactive approach underscores the organization’s dedication to safeguarding Alen’s rights and addressing complexities through legal channels. Advising Alen against the assessment presently and urging written communication with his employer the attorney aims to gather evidence for potential future legal action. “Partnerships in Health” remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the rights of individuals facing discrimination, ensuring equitable treatment in the workplace.

Strength and сourage: fighting HIV discrimination in Uzbekistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 10, 2024

Solila (name changed), a 39-year-old woman, faced a serious problem at work because of her HIV-positive status. She worked in the kitchen, washing dishes in a small restaurant. One day at work, she had a conflict and a fight with one of her coworkers over spreading information about her HIV status.

After the incident, the management fired her. On REActor’s advice, the woman wrote a statement to the authorities. Initially, it was not accepted, but after the paralegal’s intervention, it was accepted.

Unfortunately, she could not be reinstated, as the owner of the establishment refused to take her back, explaining that other employees refused to work with her because of her HIV status. However the former colleague with whom the conflict occurred was fined and fired.

Despite all the difficulties, the woman found a new job and continues to live and work, overcoming discrimination and showing an example of resilience and courage.

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