Tag: Discrimination

Fighting for rights and justice in Armenia: a story in a hostel

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 20, 2023

In the summer, MA (name changed) came to the city for a week for work. To save money, he rented a bunk bed in a hostel in District XX. According to MA, he chose this particular hostel because all the people there are foreigners and only the administrator is Armenian. At the time of check-in, the client paid the full amount for the week. The man liked the atmosphere among the hostel residents, there were mostly young people from India and Iran. In the evening, everyone consumed alcoholic beverages together and got to know each other, and MA decided to take a shower before going to bed. The shower room was shared and when he went in there was an Iranian man about 26 years old. The Iranian explained by gestures that he wanted to have sex and MA agreed. After having sex in the shower room, the client went to sleep, early in the morning he left the hostel for his business.

In the evening when he returned to the hostel, the receptionist told the man to pack his belongings immediately and leave the hostel. When MA asked what happened, the receptionist said that he had seen everything during the night and that such an infectious gay (in foul language) could not stay there anymore and spoil the reputation. MA realized there was no point in arguing, and asked the admin for a refund for 6 days while he packed his stuff. He abruptly refused and started berating MA again because of his orientation and age (the client is over 50). MA packed his things, left the hostel, and called the REActor. He told the client not to go anywhere and to wait for him outside the hostel. After about 20 minutes, the paralegal was there. Also, he checked the establishment on the Internet but found no information about it at all.

He and the client entered the hostel, the paralegal introduced himself as a human rights defender and that he and MA were going to go to the police and write a report against the administrator. The latter replied that they could go. Then REActor added that he had googled the name of the hostel and found no information and that he would write in the statement that the hostel should be checked by the tax service. The administrator was confused and offered to sit down while he called the owner. After 5 minutes he came back with a phone and told the REActor that the host wanted to talk to him. The paralegal explained the situation, that they were going to go to the police to write a statement for defamation, for discrimination, for refusing to return the money for unlived days, to make the hostel pass the tax audit, because when MA paid for a week, the administrator did not give him a check, and added that there would be a scandal on social networks. The host apologized, said there was a misunderstanding, that MA was free to live there, and as compensation offered to include breakfast for MA on the other 6 days. REactor and MA discussed the offer and he agreed. On leaving, the paralegal told the administrator that if he behaved any further inappropriately in any way, he would be back, but with police officers. During the night, the MA sent a text message saying he was fine.

The next day in the evening he called and said that in the morning the administrator was very polite, but in the evening when MA returned to the hostel another administrator was working there and it turned out that the previous one had been fired.

Also read:

Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

Armenia: help in fighting blackmail

Tags Discrimination, Human Rights, LGBTI

Response stories

Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 17, 2023

In North Macedonia, significant strides have been made in addressing cases of discrimination and promoting HIV awareness. This update highlights some noteworthy developments in this regard.

Resolution of Discriminatory Practices

One notable case from the previous year involved the mandatory HIV testing of foreign students by a public university in the Republic of North Macedonia. The Association «Stronger Together» took proactive steps by submitting a petition to the Commission for Prevention of and Protection against Discrimination, citing violations of the Anti-Discrimination Law. This case has been successfully resolved in a positive manner: the university responded by revising its discriminatory requirements for foreign students, ensuring fair and equal treatment.

Collaboration with the Clinic for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Further progress was achieved through collaboration. On June 6th, the Association «Stronger Together» conducted its inaugural workshop in partnership with the Clinic for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The workshop aimed to educate medical professionals about HIV prevention and patients’ rights. This initiative was made possible due to the positive resolution of a previous case and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between «Stronger Together» and the Clinic.

These developments signify North Macedonia’s commitment to combating discrimination and enhancing awareness about HIV within the country. Such collaborative efforts and the resolution of discriminatory cases serve as important steps towards a more inclusive and informed society.

As North Macedonia continues its journey towards promoting equality and public health, it is evident that positive changes are taking place, thanks to the collective efforts of organizations like the Association «Stronger Together» and their partners.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Human Rights, North Macedonia

Response stories

Defending the rights of LGBTIQ+ activists in Kazakhstan: Danara’s story

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 8, 2023

The story of Danara (name changed), a 25-year-old queer woman and LGBT activist, was a powerful example of the struggle for rights and non-discrimination in the workplace. The incident highlighted the importance of equal opportunities for all, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Situation:

Danara had been working in theatre for several years and feared autism as she openly expressed her sexual orientation on social media, where she shared photos of her relationships and attended rallies.

The day everything changed while packing for work, Danara received a message from a colleague who asked if she had seen the material, he had sent to the theatre’s general chat room, which consisted of about 50-100 employees of various positions.

When asked by Danara what the material was, the colleague forwarded the messages to her, complete with photos taken from her personal social media page that revealed her sexual orientation. The colleague wrote a tirade accusing her of rude and aggressive behavior at work and describing her as an “LGBT activist”, claiming that she promoted lesbian values and painted female genitals even in the props of a theatre production she was managing.

Moreover, the colleague gave an ultimatum to his colleagues: either Danara leaves the theatre or he refuses to cross her threshold by referring to her as an “LGBT activist”.

Actions and REAction:

Danara came to work, and her colleagues became supportive. They expressed their outrage at the abuser’s unethical behavior and referred to the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan and articles relating to freedom of speech. They offered her the assistance of a lawyer and publicly noted the inadmissibility of discrimination.

The abuser was quickly removed from the work chat room and dismissed from her job for breach of corporate ethics and unacceptable discrimination in the workplace.

Psychological support was provided to support Danara and human rights counselling was provided.

Conclusion:

Danara’s story is an example of the importance of protecting rights and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation. Discrimination and outings in the workplace should not be tolerated. This case also emphasizes the importance of publicly supporting and fighting for the rights of LGBTIQ+ people in Kazakhstan and globally.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Discrimination, Human Rights, Kazakhstan

Response stories

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 8, 2023

In our society, there is an obligation to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their health or other characteristics. However, even in the modern world, some individuals face discrimination, especially children with HIV-positive status. The story of Ayman (name changed) and her child is just one example of such discrimination, but it is important to highlight the actions taken to protect their rights.

Situation:

Ayman, a single mother, found herself in the need to provide care and education for her child, who also happens to be HIV-positive. She decided to enroll her child in an educational center that offered extended-day services and was conveniently located near their home. The center’s conditions included providing supervision for the child before and after school, meals, assistance with homework, and a focus on educational aspects.

However, when Ayman applied to the educational center, she was denied a contract for educational services due to her child’s HIV-positive status. This refusal left her puzzled and worried, as she did not know where to turn to ensure a safe and caring environment for her child after school.

Actions and REAction:

Ayman and an infectious disease specialist, who provided medical support to her and her family, decided to take action together. They contacted the management of the educational center and invited the staff for an explanatory conversation. During this discussion, several crucial points were addressed:

Modes of HIV Transmission: The infectious disease specialist provided information on how HIV is transmitted and the precautions taken to prevent transmission within educational institutions.

Non-Discriminatory Approach: It was explained that the Republic of Kazakhstan guarantees protection from discrimination based on health or health status. This means that refusing services based on HIV-positive status is unacceptable.

Confidentiality: To protect the child’s confidentiality and medical information, the center’s management was reminded of the strict need to maintain confidentiality and not disclose the child’s diagnosis.

Conclusion:

The joint efforts of Ayman, the infectious disease specialist, and the management of the educational center resulted in the resolution of the situation and the protection of the child’s right to receive educational services. This case underscores the importance of education and public awareness about the rights of HIV-positive citizens and the impermissibility of discrimination based on their health. The pursuit of equality and the protection of every child’s right should be a priority in educational institutions and society as a whole.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Kazakhstan

Response stories

Triumphing over the difficulties of recovery: REActor’s assistance in the rehabilitation of an HIV patient in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 7, 2023

Dilara (name changed), living with HIV, faced a serious need for surgery to repair her stomach. However, her long road to recovery was hampered by several bumps in the medical process.

First, the checkup required before surgery was postponed four times. The culprits were constant doctor absences, technical problems with equipment, and unstable database performance. These delays added stress to Dilara’s already difficult situation.

However, the hardest part was the attitude of the hospital staff. Because of her HIV status, Dilara faced constant neglect and underestimation, further worsening her emotional state.

The story took an unexpected turn when Dilara sought help from a REActor. As a result of the counseling session, she was given a detailed explanation of her rights and the timeline for her recovery surgery.

Together with the REActor, they filed a complaint with the Community Service Center (CSC) about the attitude of the staff and the postponement of the process. The case was registered and appropriate action was taken.

With the removal of the difficulties and pressures from the REActor and the CSC, Dilara was able to be examined and successfully underwent gastric reconstruction surgery. She is now in the rehabilitation phase, regaining her health.

This story emphasizes the importance of systemic support and proactive intervention in complex medical situations, especially when a patient faces additional challenges due to their status.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Kazakhstan

Response stories

Caring for people living with HIV in Azerbaijan: how REActors help to overcome difficulties with residence registration

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 5, 2023

Recently, REActors in Azerbaijan have been facing a growing problem of integrating people living with HIV (PLHIV) into society. In more than 100 registered cases, problems have arisen either with personal documents or with official registration. Some of them had just been released from prison, some found themselves because their families had left them alone, and some had lost their documents. And the lack of documents limits access to social security services and benefits.

However, despite the difficulties faced by members of vulnerable groups, national paralegals act as mediators to help resolve such problems. One example of such support was the case of Zaur (name changed), a member of the PLHIV community, who faced serious difficulties due to the lack of a propiska. In Azerbaijan, as in many other countries, this is an important prerequisite for obtaining government services such as a new passport, bank card, or pension payments.

Zaur was discharged by the police without obtaining a new propiska. This created an obstacle for him in receiving social services, as most state organizations require a place of residence registration before providing services. This situation became a real challenge for Zaur, depriving him of the opportunity to register elsewhere and receive the necessary social benefits.

This is when REActors stepped in, acting as intermediaries between Zaur and social services. They started by collecting the necessary documents that provided full information about his condition and needs. This included medical documents confirming HIV status and other documents necessary to resolve the issue of residence registration.

Next, the REActors actively searched for a suitable place for residence registration, taking into account all requirements and restrictions. However, their assistance was not limited to the selection. They also covered all costs related to registration and other necessary procedures. The resources for this were allocated from the paralegals’ funds, which emphasizes their dedication and willingness to help those in need. At the moment, the issue of Zaur’s place of residence is being resolved.

This case became not only a vivid example of effective assistance to PLHIV in Azerbaijan but also emphasized the importance of the role of national REActors in ensuring social justice and inclusion. With their participation and support, a society is being created where every person can expect to be able to live a full life, regardless of their circumstances.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

Tags Azerbaijan, Discrimination, HIV

Response stories Uncategorized

Armenia: help in fighting blackmail

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 30, 2023

This year brought an unexpected challenge in the life of Zara (name changed), a transgender woman. Together with her partner, she decided to take an HIV test and the result was positive. Instead of support and sympathy from her significant other, Zara faced shocking blackmail and threats. Her partner threatened to reveal her HIV status and demanded money to keep this personal information private. He swindled $1,500 in local currency and demanded more.

Zara found herself in a difficult situation, not knowing how to proceed. However, thanks to the advice of a kind friend, she turned to REActors for help. This was the turning point that helped Zara to reclaim her rights and regain her dignity.

The help provided by the REActor was incredibly valuable. Through competent counseling and support, Zara realized her rights and was able to regain her self-esteem. Equally importantly, the paralegal acted as a mediator in resolving this difficult situation. During the conversation, he explained to the offender about his illegal actions and what would follow if he did not stop.

After some time and after the intervention of the REActor, the blackmailer realized his illegal actions and returned the money to Zara. This case is an example of how proper information, dialog, and mediation can help people to fight injustice.

Zara’s story highlights the importance of the work of national REActors who come to the rescue in difficult situations and demonstrate that solidarity and knowledge of one’s rights can make a difference in people’s lives.

Also read:

Fighting for a safe birth: the story of a client from Uzbekistan

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Armenia, Discrimination, Human Rights, LGBTQ

Response stories

The Scarlet Letter: The Marking of a Person Living with HIV in North Macedonia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 28, 2023

Several laws in the Republic of North Macedonia govern the right to privacy of patient’s medical records and information, which are given special consideration in data protection laws. However, in some cases, patients’ HIV status is disclosed, which can have a significant impact on their social lives and violate their right to privacy and family life.

Scarlet Letter: “HIV+”

In November 2022, the patient, a person living with HIV, visited the Clinic for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, where he was scheduled to undergo surgical intervention for the third time in six years. During the consultations, the patient informed the anesthesiologist and the surgeon that he had been diagnosed with HIV a year ago, that he was taking antiretroviral medications, and that his virus level was undetectable. Such information did not prevent the surgeon from performing the surgery, and he was scheduled for surgery the following month. There were 15 people in the operating room on the day of the surgery, and the anesthesiologist told the patient that he was supposed to notify them about his HIV status, which he had previously done.

During his stay at the Clinic, the patient was subjected to stigmatizing and unprofessional behavior from medical professionals, particularly medical nurses. “HIV+” was written in bold and red letters on his patient documents, including his medical history and temperature list. This was not standard practice, and as a result, all of the other six patients in the same room learned about his HIV – status. Additionally, the nurses warned the young doctors to be “extra careful” with the patient and to “not touch” him.

REAction and outcome

The patient agreed for the Association «Stronger Together» to send a letter to the Clinic’s director outlining the facts of the situation and the legal provisions that had been broken. Following the delivery of the letter, representatives of the Association met with the Director and several Clinic employees, who stated that they required more information about the patient because they did not recall a patient living with HIV being admitted to the Clinic. Following the sharing of such information, another meeting was held at which the employees acknowledged the accuracy of the patient’s claims and apologized to the Association and the patient. The head nurse told the representatives of an internal meeting, where she informed the personnel of their responsibilities as physicians. The Association and the Clinic agreed to work together to educate young doctors about HIV and the social implications of an HIV diagnosis on patients, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding. The first workshop resulting from the Memorandum was held in early June of this year.

Also read:

Shielding the Innocent: Human Trafficking in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Discrimination against HIV-positive prisoners in Kazakhstan: Barriers to resocialization

Tags Discrimination, HIV, North Macedonia

Response stories

Discrimination against HIV-positive prisoners in Kazakhstan: Barriers to resocialization

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 24, 2023

The situation of HIV-positive prisoners in Kazakhstan faces challenges and discrimination, especially in the process of reintegration back into society. The denial of resocialization services to HIV-positive prisoner Damir (name changed) was a clear example of the limitations faced by HIV-positive people upon release from correctional facilities.

Damir’s situation

In April 2023, Damir contacted REActor in connection with applying for parole from a correctional facility. He planned to move to a re-socialization center after his release for support and integration back into society. However, during the court hearing, the specialist at the Resocialization Center stated that Damir was HIV-positive and had to stay in a specialized medical facility, which prevented the provision of accommodation services in the Resocialization Center.

Discriminatory barriers

The refusal of the Resocialization Center to provide services to HIV-positive Damir is based on unacceptable discrimination, which may violate his rights to equal access to social support and the possibility to return to society after serving his sentence. The refusal is based on paragraph 2, paragraph 30 of the Rules of activity of organizations providing special social services, approved by the Order of the Minister of Labor and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan from August 29, 2018, №379.

Measures taken

In turn, Damir appealed to the Representative of the Ombudsman for Human Rights in the Republic of Kazakhstan for the East Kazakhstan region and filed a complaint against the Resocialization Center. The representative of the Ombudsman initiated a working meeting with the participation of the Prosecutor’s Office, the Resocialization Center, the Health Department, the AIDS Center, and the Department of Corrections and Detention. During the meeting, it was decided through the prosecutor’s office to request the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan to explain the meaning and content of p. 2 p. 30 of the Rules of Activity of Organizations Providing Special Social Services.

Conclusion

The situation with HIV-positive prisoners in Kazakhstan requires close attention and additional measures to prevent discrimination and ensure equal access to social and medical support. It is necessary to strive for fair treatment and avoid violation of the rights of HIV-positive people, including their right to re-socialization and return to society after serving their sentence.

Also read:

Discrimination against HIV-positive women in Kazakhstan: Life on the brink

Client Incident: Wrongful Disclosure of Medical Information in Uzbekistan

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Human Rights, Kazakhstan, prisoners

Response stories

Client Incident: Wrongful Disclosure of Medical Information in Uzbekistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 23, 2023

Confidentiality of medical information is a fundamental principle in health care. Physicians and medical staff have to protect patient confidentiality and prevent the disclosure of personal information. In this article, we will examine one case involving a client who experienced the wrongful disclosure of his medical status to his neighbors.

Case Description:

In this incident, the client lives with his wife in an apartment that is located in the same building as his parents. While they were away on vacation that same day in the evening, a neighbor who lives on the ground floor came and informed the client that they had been visited by the polyclinic for an annual medical examination because they were allegedly registered at an AIDS center. The shocked client and his wife immediately visited the central polyclinic of Yangi-Khaet district to find out the reason for such visits and the disclosure of their medical status to their neighbors. However, the nurse they contacted stated that she had not visited them and had not disclosed the information to the neighbors. Because of this misunderstanding, the client and his wife appealed to the management of the outpatient clinic to stop further disclosure of confidential information.

Solution:
To resolve the incident, the client and his wife decided to contact their neighbors and find out who exactly had visited them in their absence. It turned out to be a nurse working with a general practitioner. After speaking with the nurse, the client and his spouse discussed the disclosure of medical status and possible consequences for the offender. The nurse promised that this situation would not happen again in the future. The nurse then went to the neighbors and explained that a mistake had been made and apologized for the inappropriate disclosure of confidential information.

Conclusion:

The described case is a serious violation of the principles of confidentiality of medical information. Disclosure of medical status without the patient’s consent is unacceptable and can lead to negative consequences for the patient, including violation of their rights and trouble in the community. In this case, the client and his spouse were able to resolve the issue by having an explanatory conversation with the nurse and neighbors. However, incidents such as these emphasize the importance of respecting the principles of medical confidentiality and the need to take appropriate measures to prevent similar breaches in the future.

Original Source (in Russian)

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Controversial healthcare procedure canceled after public outcry in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton

Survival Story: How an organization helped a woman overcome her HIV diagnosis and start a new life

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Human Rights, Uzbekistan

Response stories

Guiding Change: The Role of REActors in Supporting and Protecting LGBTQ People in Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 4, 2023

Армения, несмотря на свое членство в Европейской комиссии против дискриминации, сталкивается с глубоко укоренившейся консервативной культурой и традициями, что приводит к стигматизации и дискриминации ЛГБТК-сообщества.

– Законодательство: Армения не имеет законов, которые явно защищали бы ЛГБТК-сообщество от дискриминации на основе сексуальной ориентации или гендерной идентичности. Это создает юридическую неопределенность и препятствует защите и правам ЛГБТК-людей.

– Социальное отношение: В армянском обществе преобладает консервативный подход к вопросам сексуальной ориентации и гендерной идентичности. Гомофобия и трансфобия распространены, и ЛГБТК-люди подвергаются социальному изоляции, преследованию и насилию. Они также часто сталкиваются с дискриминацией на рабочих местах и в учебных заведениях.

– Отсутствие правовой защиты: ЛГБТК-сообщество в Армении сталкивается с ограничениями в доступе к здравоохранению, социальным услугам и юридической защите. Отсутствие правовой защиты означает, что жертвы дискриминации и насилия имеют мало возможностей обратиться за помощью и справедливостью.

– Пропаганда “традиционных ценностей”: в последние годы наблюдается усиление консервативных и националистических групп, которые активно пропагандируют “традиционные ценности” и враждебно относятся к ЛГБТК-сообществу. Они проводят митинги, демонстрации и кампании, которые способствуют стигматизации и дискриминации ЛГБТК-людей.

Отсутствие законодательной защиты, социальные ограничения и препятствия в доступе к правам и услугам создают неблагоприятную среду для ЛГБТК-людей. Однако, благодаря инструментам, таким как РЕАкт, армянское ЛГБТК-сообщество находит поддержку и защиту, способствуя изменениям в общественном мнении.

Предательство и отчуждение

19 января Тигран (имя изменено) – представитель ЛГБТК-сообщества позвонил РЕАктору со слезами и рассказал, что познакомился в Интернете с парнем. Их общение длилось какое-то время, после чего он отправил ему свои интимные фотографии. Однако парень начал шантажировать Тиграна, сказав, что отправит эти снимки его родителям, если он не переведет ему 100 000 драм (около 250 долларов) до конца дня. Пострадавший был вынужден передать эти деньги, но через 2 дня тот потребовал столько же. Такой суммы у клиента уже не было. Тогда шантажист написал отцу Тиграна, что их сын гей и если до конца следующего дня ему не пришлют 200 000 драм, он выложит его интимные фото в интернет. Вместо поддержки, отец пострадавшего избил его и сказал, что такой сын ему не нужен. Тигран, глубоко переживая, решил покончить жизнь самоубийством и направился к мосту. Он позвонил РЕАктору уже оттуда, перед прыжком. РЕАктор уговорил его не делать поспешных решений и, не прерывая связи, направился к нему.

“Ты не один”

На месте он предоставил психологическую помощь и предложил переночевать у себя, так как Тиграну просто не было куда идти. Утром они вместе направились в отделение полиции. Представители органов подшучивали над молодым человеком и не хотели записывать показания. Они говорили, что пока ничего не опубликовано, нужно радоваться и продолжать наслаждаться жизнью. Тогда РЕАктор позвонил на горячую линию и оставил жалобу, после чего им позволили написать заявление. Уже через несколько дней шантажиста нашли, взяли под стражу и провели воспитательную беседу. Он больше не беспокоит пострадавшего. А Тигран вернулся в семью и помирился с отцом.

Проблемы, с которыми сталкивается ЛГБТК-сообщество в Армении, являются серьезными и требуют немедленных действий со стороны общества, правительства и международного сообщества. Но несмотря на сложности, существует надежда на позитивные изменения и прогресс. Общественное мнение играет важную роль в изменении отношения к ЛГБТК-сообществу. Организации и активисты должны продолжать освещать проблемы, связанные с дискриминацией и стигмой, а также работать над повышением осведомленности об этом вопросе. Образовательные программы, мероприятия и кампании могут помочь смягчить предубеждения и создать атмосферу взаимопонимания и уважения.Важно, чтобы все люди осознавали – ЛГБТК-сообщество имеет те же права и заслуживает равных возможностей и защиты.

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Дискриминация и стигматизация ВИЧ-положительных детей в Армении: вызовы и необходимость действий

Преодоление стигмы и насилия: История выхода из западни для человека, употребляющего наркотики, в Армении

Tags Armenia, Discrimination, Human Rights, LGBTQ

News

Demand Compliance! Why is standing up for one’s right to work so important?

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 1, 2023

Human rights violations occur all over the world, primarily because of discrimination of varying degrees: in the family, at the institutional or national level. It has no boundaries, profoundly affecting the structure of global society. To be sure, over the years many countries have undergone a series of legislative and policy reforms to maximize support for the rights of vulnerable groups, and key principles are originally contained in many existing International Labor Organization conventions and recommendations, as well as in other instruments affecting rights (including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights). However, progress on employment is still highly unsatisfactory. Gender inequality, disclosure of the status of employees in the workplace, mandatory testing, banning people living with HIV from certain activities and professions, dismissal or denial of employment… The list of forms of discrimination against key populations (including women and children) in the socio-economic sphere is extensive, in parallel promoting the development of stigma in society.

Over the past three years, REActors in the regions of Southeast Europe and Central Asia have noted systematic institutional violations of the right “to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment”. Thus, the most widespread cases remain:

– The exclusion from collective activity of beneficiaries previously incarcerated (e.g., for drug use).

– refusal to employ women because they belong to a key group (sex workers, PWUD community) or because they have children.

– mandatory HIV testing and dismissal due to positive HIV status.

– negative, discriminatory attitude and humiliating actions from the team because of an employee’s HIV status, gross violation of his/her privacy.

All these cases have several things in common: when faced with such a problem, the injured party experiences an inexpressible feeling of hopelessness, fear, and a desire to simply disappear from the life of the surrounding society. However, if the person found the strength not to close down alone with self-stigma and psychological pressure, but to share it with the REActor, then an important step has been taken toward solving and ending such situations.

It is important to remember: only by uncovering existing problems and acknowledging discrimination and violations in the workplace can we further protect, respect, and fulfill human rights, through gender equality, dialogue, prevention, and support at all levels.

Also read:

Respect our choice! The world celebrates International Sex Worker Rights Day

Progressive role of NGOs during the lockdowns: Eurasian Women’s Network on AIDS presented best practices of the EECA region at the Harm Reduction International Conference

Tags Discrimination, Human Rights

Response stories

Controversial healthcare procedure canceled after public outcry in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 15, 2023

The recent change in the procedure of the Institute of Health Insurance of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton (ZZOHNK) for scheduling and conducting examinations from primary to specialist healthcare in health institutions within the canton has resulted in a positive outcome for the people, which was largely due to the public’s reaction to the initial controversy over the changes.

The procedure, which aimed to divide patients based on their nationality, received a strong outcry from citizens, NGOs, and political parties who argued that it violated basic medical postulates and oaths, and numerous positive legal regulations governing the field of healthcare. The cancellation of the controversial healthcare procedure in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton is a victory for the patients’ rights to receive equal and non-discriminatory healthcare. This decision has reaffirmed the fundamental principle that patients have the right to choose their preferred healthcare providers, and that nobody should be separated or discriminated against based on their nationality or any other personal characteristic.

The success of this story lies in the power of the people to stand up for their rights and demand accountability from their institutions. Without the collective efforts of citizens, NGOs, and political parties, this discriminatory procedure could have been implemented, and patients could have been denied access to healthcare facilities based on their nationality. The cancellation of this procedure serves as a reminder that the people’s voice is powerful and that their actions can bring about positive change in society.

The public outcry against the procedure reflects the collective will of the people to ensure that their basic rights and values are respected by the institutions responsible for providing them with essential services. It sends a clear message that discrimination and segregation have no place in modern society, especially in the field of healthcare where access to quality care is a fundamental human right.

Respect our choice! The world celebrates International Sex Worker Rights Day

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 3, 2023

March 3rd is International Sex Worker Rights Day. Its history began in 2001 when over 25,000 sex workers gathered for a festival in India. The event was hosted by the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee, a Calcutta based group, representing the interests of more than 50,000 sex workers and members of their communities. Since that time, March 3 is celebrated all over the world.

But even though the global society is developing as quickly as possible, in many countries sex workers are seen as criminals and “fallen” people, causing “undermining of traditional values”. Alas, the region of Eastern Europe and Central Asia is no exception. Justifying themselves in this way, governments in some countries support the criminalization of sex work and campaigns aimed at discriminating against the rights of this key group. And even where sex work is not subject to any administrative or criminal prosecution, police raids, violence, humiliation, and insults from society and even family members are not uncommon.

The REActors of the EECA region make every effort to constantly monitor and address situations where there is a violation of the rights of sex workers and workers. Today we bring to your attention several publications with an overview of the situations in Moldova, Tajikistan, and Georgia, as well as the support and struggle of paralegals against discrimination against this key group in these countries.

Tajikistan. Said, REActor: “…I made a rule for myself: once you start to defend, then fight to the end. Otherwise, you will lose both trust and authority.”

Georgia. Kakha Kvashilava, REAct National Coordinator: “The attitude towards violence in the country is as strict as possible, therefore the attitude of the police towards the victim from this key group is the same as in any other case: adequate and within the framework of the powers granted by law.”

Moldova. National REActor: “Persecution and violence against girls by law enforcement agencies occur on an ongoing basis, they are discriminated against and humiliated, and they can be beaten, but they refuse to write complaints, knowing that they are being prosecuted by law.”

Today and always it is worth remembering that sex work is an activity like any other, which requires acceptance and respect. And its representative – respect for the rights and non-discrimination to himself/herself and his/her choice.

Establish Rights-Respecting Laws: What Moldova Needs to Make a Difference and Combat Sex Work Discrimination

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 3, 2023

Moldova provides for administrative liability for engaging in sex work. The article is often applied, and in 2023 there will be a tougher punishment by increasing fines. And while this discrimination and stigmatization of sex workers breed violence, increase the vulnerability of this key group, puts their health at risk, and limits access to justice, girls, and women are willing to take risks to feed their families and survive. Many official salaries are not even enough to pay for the simplest services, so there are more and more sex workers in the country, and law enforcement officials use this article as a means of extortion, control, and punishment of those who refused to pay off.

According to one of Moldova’s national REActors, it is common for a beneficiary to be fined for a different reason, which is much higher than the penalty for sex work. For example, there was a case when a girl was fined, but another administrative violation as indicated in the protocol, since they could not prove that the beneficiary was a sex worker. Therefore, an attack and a conflict with the police were indicated. Sometimes services are not paid for, and if a girl is caught, she will have no reason to close the fine. In this connection, sex workers often try to run away or negotiate “on the spot” with the police. Persecution and violence against girls by law enforcement agencies occur on an ongoing basis, they are discriminated against and humiliated, and they can be beaten, but they refuse to write complaints, knowing that they are being prosecuted by law. And if they are consulted, then only anonymously, as they are afraid of publicity.

The presence of such fines often becomes an excellent reason for discrimination on the part of other employers: a person can be fired without benefits and explanations, or denied pay. However, if it comes to REActors, then the probability of a positive solution to the situation increases significantly. So, in one case, a former sex worker got a job caring for a disabled person. After working for 4 months, she came for a salary, but she was refused – the employer referred to the fact that she had previously provided sex services, but did not mention or warn about this when she was hired. The client turned to REActor, who promptly got in touch with him and threatened to file a complaint. A week later, the due funds were paid to the girl in full.

Even children of sex workers are discriminated against. They are teased on the streets, and sometimes in kindergartens. The REActor recorded a case when the educators asked the mother, a sex worker, to transfer the child to another preschool institution. After the paralegal learned about the situation, a consultation was held with the beneficiary, and a conversation was held with the educator and director of the kindergarten. As a result, the child was simply transferred to another group and the kindergarten did not have to be changed.

The reality is clear: Moldovan legislation regarding key populations remains repressive and discriminatory. But we must remember that for the situation to change, we need to start from the very “top”: the government should abandon the application of laws on administrative violations that punish sex work. It is necessary to stop harassment and violence against representatives of the sex industry by law enforcement agencies and allow everyone to work in safety and inadequate, equal conditions.

Progress of Georgia in combating violence against women and its protection mechanisms on practice

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 3, 2023

In recent years, Georgia has made significant progress in combating violence against women and domestic violence, especially in terms of criminal prosecution of such crimes, as well as the improvement of victim protection and assistance mechanisms. In 2017, Georgia ratified the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention and Suppression of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention) and took measures to bring Georgia’s legislation into line with the Convention. Currently, the legislation defines various forms of violence against women and provides important mechanisms for responding to violence.

Despite positive changes, women belonging to vulnerable groups face special barriers in accessing justice for sexual violence. Barriers, in many cases, are caused by inappropriate or discriminatory legal regulation, stigma against vulnerable women, and inadequate preparation of judicial bodies in criminal prosecutions to the specifics of vulnerable groups. Since women representing the mentioned groups face special barriers in terms of using legal means and practice on these issues is extremely rare, and it is impossible to obtain important information about their specific problems. REAct is the only possibility in terms of identifying their problems and needs. Despite the existing problems, in most cases, the police react positively to the violence against sex workers, as evidenced by the cases registered in the REAct system.

Tamta (name changed), sex worker, 33 years old

The beneficiary is a sex worker, 33, who was married and divorced due to abuse, was systematically subjected to psychological and physical abuse by her husband, mainly due to jealousy and an alleged association with sex work. After one of the incidents, she turned to the patrol for help with the children. They were given the status of victims and placed in a shelter.

Lika (name changed), sex worker, 31 years old

The commercial sex worker provided service to the client, but upon arrival demanded to establish an unspecified and unacceptable relationship for her, after which she verbally abused her, then proceeded to physical violence. However, with the help of a friend, the beneficiary managed to contact the police, and the offender was arrested.

According to the current situation in Georgia, the police react immediately and strictly against violence against women, based on the existing legislation, including violations of the rights of women sex workers.

Kakha Kvashilava, REAct National Coordinator: “In our practice, it has never happened that the police refuse to initiate an investigation or do not respond because the victim is a sex worker. The attitude towards violence in the country is as strict as possible, therefore the attitude of the police towards the victim from this key group is the same as in any other case: adequate and within the framework of the powers granted by law. That is why affected sex workers have recently turned to the police more and more often, and their confidence has increased to a certain extent. This is facilitated by the fact that to combat violence against women, national mechanisms and institutions have been created that are developing positively, legal norms are being improved, public awareness is being raised, and the office of the public defender is actively working. The state mechanism against violence exists at a high level of the hierarchy – the government. And criminal, civil, and administrative mechanisms are used to detect and prevent violence against women and/or domestic violence.

Therefore, if necessary, it is enough for the victim to call 112 and report the incident, which will be followed by an immediate response from law enforcement agencies.”

The REAct team hopes that the current situation will improve further and that other vulnerable groups’ rights violations will be dealt with fairly and immediately.

Against discrimination and stereotypes of society: how REActors defend the rights of sex workers in Tajikistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 3, 2023

On November 9, 2018, the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDOW) issued recommendations to Tajikistan, noting that contrary to the Committee’s proposal to abolish punishment for sex work, reports of intimidation, harassment, and violation of the rights of sex workers have increased. These women are being repressed for their work because of the “undermining of traditional values”. Moreover, administrative responsibility for this activity was also toughened (fines increased or arrests up to 15 days) as a necessity for the “fight against prostitution” and against the spread of HIV.

Society does not want to open its eyes to the fact that this is nothing more than a stereotype – according to the National Program to Combat the HIV Epidemic for 2017-2020 HIV prevalence among female sex workers was only 3.5%! And the main route of transmission of the virus in the country is heterosexual sexual intercourse (in some regions, the proportion of such cases has reached 70%). But for most law enforcement officials, medical center employees, and even acquaintances and relatives, sex work is a stigma and an evil that brings problems, and it should be punished. And the methods chosen for this, at times, turn out to be far beyond the legal field.

However, even given such unfavorable conditions, REActors in Tajikistan manage not only to record the facts of violations but also successfully help sex workers overcome the problems that have arisen and assert their rights.

“We all know about you!”

In January, one of the REActors received a call from Aziza (name changed). The girl was previously a sex worker, but at the time of the conversation she no longer provided services, lived in a hostel with a small child, and earned money by cleaning houses. One evening, two police officers came to them and asked the watchman to call Aziza. When the client asked what they needed, law enforcement officials began to intimidate the girl, saying that they knew about her positive HIV status and what she had been doing before. Further, blackmail began – either publicity or work for them and revealing the names of other sex workers. Aziza said that she had not provided sex services for a long time and could not know anyone. Then the police began to interrogate where and from whom she got infected, and who was her former clients. The client said she did not know this and was not going to talk to anyone. In response, threats followed, up to the initiation of a case for prostitution and deprivation of child custody. Not surprisingly, the next day, the girl took her daughter and ran away from the hostel. Having recorded everything, the REActor asked for the telephone number of the policemen who had come and called them. Introducing himself, he explained that he could follow their similar actions. Initially, they behaved aggressively, also threatening to be held accountable for aiding and concealing data. But when the paralegal said that they, too, had justice through complaints and statements to the Prosecutor and the police chief, they asked for a meeting. Then there were threats again, but the REActor insisted on his own. Hearing this, the self-defense method worked for the employees of the authorities, and they offered to call Aziza to meet all together and discuss further actions. On the spot, the client and the policemen gave their word that they would no longer interfere in her life and would not disturb the girl.

“I want to be with you so much…”

The REActors hotline received a call from Gesu (name changed). The girl asked for help – she was publicly beaten for being engaged in commercial sex. In a personal meeting, the client said that she had recently been with a young man. He liked her, and the guy offered to be with him all the time but was refused. Repeated attempts to again attract the girl to intimacy also turned out to be fruitless. One day the guy saw Gesa with another young man. After that, choosing the moment when she was returning home from her friend alone, he, along with a friend, blocked the path and the men began to pester her. The client asked to be released and tried to run away, but they started beating her. A woman was walking nearby, saw this, and called her neighbor, a district police officer in another territory. Upon arrival, the policeman smelled alcohol, began to separate them, but blamed Gesa for everything! Instead of detaining the rapists and fixing the violation, a law enforcement representative reproached that she had already been caught by the police once. Then he asked everyone to disperse and warned the girl that if this happens again, he will take her to the department.

The girl left in tears and beating. And then her call to the REAct hotline sounded. The paralegal immediately offered Gesа his help, contact the forensic examination and remove traces of beatings. He agreed. Together they underwent an examination in a forensic medical examination, took a conclusion, and then went to the police station and wrote a statement. He was registered, and at the same time, the client gave testimonies against the district police officer, who ignored the fact of the offense. The next day, Gesa was summoned to the police department. They drew up a protocol and opened a criminal case against the rapists. And the situation with the district police officer was taken under control by those responsible for the internal investigation.

Said, REActor, Tajikistan: “By proving the correctness of clients and the wrongdoings by the police, you become an experienced and authoritative defender of the rights of key groups. But you must remember that you need to speak with representatives of the authorities in the language of substantiated facts, then you can agree. The REActor must understand the differences between offenses and ordinary cases – I will not hide that each policeman, before starting a substantive conversation, first assesses the level of my knowledge. But for myself, I made a rule: once you start to defend, then fight to the end. Otherwise, you will lose both trust and authority.”

Sex work is an activity like any other that requires acceptance and respect. And its representative – respect for the rights and non-discrimination to himself/herself and his/her choice.

The right to a decent and fulfilling life: the world celebrates Zero Discrimination Day

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 1, 2023

“Discrimination is a violation of human rights and must not go unchallenged. Everyone has the right to live with respect and dignity.” – 8th UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

Zero Discrimination Day, or Anti-Discrimination Day, has been celebrated on March 1 since 2014. It was initiated by UNAIDS (UNAIDS), the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS. On this day, every year around the world, civil society and states, officials, activists, journalists, and donors, again and again, support the elimination of infringement of human rights, including against key groups.

The UN notes that the consequences of inequality are experienced by 70 percent of the entire population of the world and this is a significant obstacle to the development of society as a whole. And the most tangible blow is felt by the most vulnerable segments of the population. Thus, according to UNAIDS statistics, the 90-90-90 treatment cascade in the region of Eastern Europe and Central Asia is still far from being achieved. In 2020, it was 70-44-41 and one of the key reasons for this situation is that social and legal conditions still require significant changes and improvements. In many countries in the region, laws are discriminatory—they deny human rights and fundamental freedoms and result in people being treated unequally, excluded from basic services, or subjected to unreasonable restrictions, simply because of who they are and what they do.

REAct, as a tool for monitoring and responding to human rights violations, sees the solution to the situation as improving the legal environment, providing access to services for key groups, and removing discriminatory barriers from government agencies and society. And these changes are already taking place:

Moldova, 2021. The patient fought for his right to access HIV prevention and treatment services through the electronic REAct system. Together with the coordinating team of the National HIV Program and partnership organizations with the Chief Narcologist of Moldova there was set up the opening of a substitution therapy point in Orhei city.

Tajikistan, 2022. REActors and representatives of state structures jointly changed the picture of constant violations of human rights in the regional AIDS Centers. The situation was extremely difficult: on the part of the medical staff, the status of people was disclosed, personal data was transferred to third parties, there was neglect and contempt, especially towards representatives of LGBT and MSM communities.

Georgia, 2021. The sex worker decided not to be silent and fight for her rights – her husband found out about her work and as a result, the woman was subjected to physical violence. With the help of the REActor, the case was resolved positively, the offender was punished, and the client with the children is now safe.

These are just a few stories. But on their example, we want to say today – it is possible and necessary to comprehensively influence the change in the legal environment to eradicate discrimination. Both from the side of another person, and the whole country as a whole. And thanks to the existing REAct tool and the difficult but effective work of partners and paralegals in the region, this transformation is already happening and making its contribution to the EECA region.