Tag: Discrimination

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Response stories

Fighting for rights: confronting discrimination based on TB in Kazakhstan

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The story of Marat (name changed), an electrician from Kazakhstan, was a testament to injustice and discrimination in the workplace due to illness. The difficulties began when his health deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of tuberculosis. However, when he returned to work after successful treatment, he was in for an unpleasant surprise.

For the past two months, Marat had been experiencing severe symptoms of TB: coughing, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Concerned about his condition, he went to the doctor, which eventually led to the diagnosis. After active treatment and return to work, Marat faced dismissal due to TB and denial of benefits.

Intervening in the situation, the REActor and the TB lawyer advocated on Marat’s side. They visited the company, negotiated with the director, and explained the laws governing temporary disability and workers’ rights. Referring to the Government Decree and Article 55 of the Labor Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, they emphasized the unacceptability of dismissal due to TB.

As a result of successful negotiations, Marat was reinstated at work and paid one month’s temporary disability allowance. The director pledged to avoid similar violations in the future.

This story emphasizes the need to respect workers’ rights and the inadmissibility of discrimination based on illness. Confronting such situations requires awareness of rights, strong intervention by public bodies, and an unwavering fight for labor justice. Everyone, regardless of their health, deserves respect and equality in the workplace.

Also read:

Denial of hospitalization: story of the fight against discrimination and stigma in Kazakhstan

Eviction from a dormitory due to HIV+ status in Kazakhstan

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Response stories

Denial of hospitalization: story of the fight against discrimination and stigma in Kazakhstan

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It all started with Ruslan’s (name changed) HIV test, which turned out to be positive. According to the preliminary agreement with the REActor, a visit to the AIDS center was scheduled to confirm the diagnosis. However, on that day the situation took an unexpected turn.

Ruslan was found by the REActor in an extremely serious condition, experiencing intense pain. The client reported that he had already asked for an ambulance the day before, but had been refused. The REActor called the ambulance again but also faced a negative reaction from the medical staff. They treated the man with disdain (Ruslan was from a community of people who use drugs and had no permanent residence at the time of the call), believing that he did not need hospitalization and expressing displeasure with his smell.

Despite the difficulties, the REActor insisted on hospitalization, taking full responsibility for the client. Eventually, after much persuasion, Ruslan was still taken to the emergency hospital. Immediately thereafter, the REActor contacted the superintendent, summoning an ambulance crew and holding a meeting about the unacceptable treatment and discrimination of patients.

However, after being discharged from the hospital, a new challenge arose – refusal to register for dispensary registration at the City AIDS Center due to lack of attachment to the polyclinic. Again, the REActor took on the problem, providing support with documents and ensuring that he was attached to a polyclinic.

Ruslan underwent all the necessary tests at the AIDS Center and started antiretroviral therapy (ART).

This story demonstrates how stigma and discrimination create additional difficulties for patients, depriving them of their right to quality medical care. Thanks to the perseverance and determination of the REActor, stereotypes and discrimination were countered. This case became a call to combat negative stereotypes, raise awareness among medical staff, and create a tolerant environment where every patient can expect impartial and quality care, regardless of their status or circumstances.

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Alarming trends against the background of domestic violence: the story of Lana from Georgia

Violence against a sex worker in Armenia and her legal support

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Response stories

Overcoming stigma and discrimination in maternity hospitals in Kazakhstan

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In the world of medicine, despite the high standards of professionalism imposed, there is 

sometimes a problem of stigmatization by healthcare providers towards their patients, especially those from key populations. This internal stigma can manifest itself in the form of biased opinions, lack of empathy, avoidance, and even disclosure of confidential information. Such behavior constitutes moral violence against the person seeking help and should not go unnoticed or unpunished. Before International AIDS Day on December 1, it is particularly important to remember that stigma creates barriers to effective prevention and treatment, and prioritizing efforts to overcome it (including within the medical community) and create a more supportive environment for all is a key factor in achieving the 95-95-95 goals.

Gulmira (name changed), a client living with HIV, went to give birth in a maternity hospital. However, from the very beginning, she encountered an unpleasant attitude on the part of medical staff.

Upon arrival at the facility, she had to repeatedly explain that she was not from a community of people who use drugs and was not a sex worker and that she did not have such friends. But this did not change the situation. During labor, the midwife said that people like Gulmira, «…get sick and give birth to disabled people». And when the process of stitching up after a cesarean section was underway, she told Gulmira: “God forbid you to twitch and I’ll inject you, you’re gonna be in a lot of trouble! I’m tired of running to take tests after people like you”. It was insulting and humiliating. While being transferred to the ward, Gulmira noticed the unkind and curious looks of the nurses. These four days in the maternity ward seemed to her as if she was in some kind of Kunstkammer.

Together with a doctor from the AIDS Center, the REActor decided to intervene. They went to the maternity center and educated the head of the ward, recalling Article 76 of the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Health of the People and the Health Care System”, which guarantees the protection of citizens from any form of discrimination and stigmatization due to the presence of any disease.

The REActor also conducted a preventive talk with the medical staff on the topic of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. She emphasized the importance of understanding, supporting, and treating every patient impartially, regardless of their HIV status.

This story emphasizes that stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings can seriously affect a patient’s physical and emotional well-being. The intervention of the REActor and the AIDS Center doctor helped to change attitudes and create a more supportive environment for Gulmira and other people living with HIV.

Also read:

The case of a doctor in Moldova: the struggle for tolerance and professional ethics

Incident in Moldova with disclosure of medical information

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Response stories

Discrimination based on HIV status in a dental clinic in Armenia

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Ashot (name changed), who had been living with HIV for four years and was on antiretroviral therapy (ARV), went to a dental clinic to get implants. He chose this medical facility because it was considered one of the best in the city.

At the consultation with the doctor, Ashot discussed his plans and they agreed on subsequent visits to the clinic. After the consultation, the client was promised a questionnaire. In the process of filling out the questionnaire, Ashot indicated “YES” to the question about HIV infection.

However, the next day, Ashot was refused treatment, namely implantation. An employee of the clinic informed him over the phone that implants are not performed for “patients with AIDS”. This statement became the basis for Ashot’s appeal to the NGO New Generation.

REActors from the NGO New Generation accepted Ashot’s case. A paralegal representing the organization contacted the clinic, introducing himself as a client who wanted to have a tooth extracted. During the conversation, he specified that he was a member of the community of people living with HIV. In response, he was told to report in person to the medical center.

The REActor then forwarded the case to the organization’s lawyer, who is currently investigating the case. New Generation is committed to addressing this discriminatory situation and supporting the rights of people living with HIV.

The case is currently under investigation and the organization’s lawyer is actively working to resolve the case. REActors are also providing support to Ashot in the process of litigation and protection of his rights.

New Generation emphasizes that discrimination based on HIV status is unacceptable and contrary to the principles of equality and human rights. The organization will continue its work to protect the rights and interests of people facing discrimination in the medical field.

Also read:

The case of a doctor in Moldova: the struggle for tolerance and professional ethics

Incident in Moldova with disclosure of medical information

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Response stories

Breaking down walls of silence: the struggle for sex workers’ rights in Azerbaijan

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For the past five years, women facing HIV, sex workers, and those who use drugs in Azerbaijan have been marginalized in the process of preparing and submitting shadow reports to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). In the concluding observations on Azerbaijan’s sixth periodic report (2022), CEDAW expressed concern, pointing out that the state relies on non-governmental organizations to provide shelter. The Committee recommended the abolition of penalties against women for prostitution, criminalization of sexual exploitation, and the provision of support programs for those who wish to leave sex work.

Zeinab’s (name changed) story is just one of many such cases. Married at seventeen, she faced difficulties when her husband left for Russia, leaving her alone with a child and no means of livelihood. Attempts to get support from her parents proved futile, and Zeinab was forced to turn to sex work. When her landlord found out about her activities, he demanded that she move out.

It was at this point that REActors intervened after hearing about the situation from other sex workers. Working with the NGO Clean World, they organized a shelter for Zeinab and her child, providing not only shelter and food but also free services for victims of domestic and sexual violence. A lawyer was engaged to resolve the eviction issue. Despite the lack of a lease, sanctions against the landlord were not possible.

Zeinab also began vocational training aimed at her eventual reintegration into society. The shelter provided her with the opportunity to acquire the skills needed to live independently. Despite her difficulties, she remains hopeful for a brighter future.

The challenges facing women in Azerbaijan are often related to early marriage, limited access to education, and high unemployment. Involvement in sex work becomes a frequent response to these factors. It is therefore important to continue to fight for women’s rights and provide support and alternatives for those who want to change their lives. The intervention of NGOs and REActors undoubtedly plays a key role in this process.

Also read:

Protecting the rights of transgender women in Tajikistan

Incident in Moldova with disclosure of medical information

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Protecting medical confidentiality in Uzbekistan

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The story of a client who faced illegal disclosure of his HIV status by his wife and mother-in-law during divorce proceedings. REActors assisted in restoring his reputation and preventing a breach of medical confidentiality.

There are situations in the world where privacy and health are subjected to illegal actions and unkind acts by loved ones. Oydin’s (name changed) story is one of fighting for his rights and defending his honor when his HIV status becomes the subject of discussion and disclosure during a divorce.

When the client contacted REActors, he found himself in a terrible situation. His wife and mother-in-law were actively spreading false information about him, including information about his HIV status. This was not only damaging to his honor but also represented a serious breach of medical confidentiality. It was important to urgently intervene and help the client restore his reputation and protect his rights.

The first step was to provide the client with psychological support as he needed help and understanding to cope with this difficult situation. The client was then counseled on the rights and responsibilities of people living with HIV and what laws and regulations govern their rights and confidentiality.

The client was then referred to a legal specialist specializing in such cases. Together with the lawyer, a plan of action was developed. An explanatory conversation was held with the relatives who spread false information and told about his HIV status about possible administrative responsibility for disclosure of medical confidentiality. After that, their attacks with slander and dissemination of his HIV status stopped.

Oydin’s story is an example of how REActors help people fight for their rights and protect their honor, especially when faced with violations of medical confidentiality. The combined efforts of the client, psychologist, and lawyer enabled him to restore his reputation and prevent long-term damage to his life. This story is a reminder of the importance of protecting privacy and a person’s right to medical confidentiality.

Original Source (in Russian)

Also read:

Protecting the rights of transgender women in Tajikistan

Incident in Moldova with disclosure of medical information

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Response stories

Ali’s story: overcoming barriers to accessing health care in Kazakhstan

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Ali (name changed), a man living with HIV and Hepatitis C, approached REActor based on a previous successful counseling experience. This time, the situation required an intervention in accessing medical care.

From the outset, Ali encountered difficulties at the polyclinic, where he was denied Hepatitis C testing and treatment due to lack of insurance. Not only that, but the front desk staff was dismissive and arrogant because of his HIV status.

The REActor provided a detailed counseling session, explaining to Ali his rights as a representative of PLHIV community patient. He highlighted the treatment algorithm for hepatitis C, classifying it as a socially significant disease that falls under the guaranteed scope of free medical care.

Accompanying Ali to the polyclinic for primary health care (PHC), the REActor met with the receptionists. After a detailed conversation, incompetence, and denial of treatment for Hepatitis C, despite its inclusion in the guaranteed scope of free medical care at PHC, was revealed.

REActor emphasized that hepatitis C is a socially significant disease in the list of the Republic of Kazakhstan and falls under free treatment. The situation was resolved and the patient is now being evaluated for further treatment for hepatitis C.

This story emphasizes the importance of active support from REActors in removing barriers and ensuring equal access to health services for all, regardless of health status.

Also read:

Overcoming stigma and discrimination in maternity hospitals in Kazakhstan

Fighting stereotypes and fears: the story of Sylvia from Moldova

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Response stories

Criminal proceedings of the case on trans* person’s beating continue in Armenia

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On August 18, 2022, H.A. had been walking in one of the streets of Vanadzor city, when two strangers approached her. The strangers immediately attacked H.A. and beat her hitting on different parts of her body. Then, they took out a knife, held it at H.A. and threatened her to leave the city as she’s a trans* woman and it’s a shame for them to have her in their city. They also threatened to kill the person if she didn’t leave. H.A. called the police. The police arrived at the scene and took everybody to the police department. However, the police materials don’t contain the data of the offenders. During reporting about the case at the police station, the police officers didn’t allow the victim to make calls or mention about her injuries in her report.  

By the decision of August 22, 2022, of A. A. Vermishyan, first counsellor, investigator of the Lori regional Investigation Department of the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia, the case of beating H.A. at location called Lcher in the night of June 5 and morning of June 6, 2022 and the case of August 18th beating were united. 

According to the decision of August 27, 2022, of A.G. Tsakhkloryan, investigator of the Lori regional Investigation Department of the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia, H.A. was recognized as a victim. 

H.A. applied to NGNGO a month after the incident. NGNGO provided the applicant with assistance, and compiled a complaint against the human rights violation committed by police officers during taking the report from the victim. H.A. was provided with a referral for forensic examination. 

Since January 2023 New Generation NGO attorney A. Zalyan took up the case.  

In 2023, the cases united by the decision of August 22, 2022, were again separated, and are examined within different proceedings. 

The preliminary investigations of the cases continue. 

New Generation NGO will provide additional information about the further progress of the cases. 

Original Source

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

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Response stories

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

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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.

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Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

Armenia: help in fighting blackmail

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Response stories

Progress in Addressing Discrimination and Promoting HIV Awareness in North Macedonia

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

Categories
Response stories

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

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

Categories
Response stories

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

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

Categories
Response stories

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

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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.

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Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

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Response stories

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

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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

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Armenia: help in fighting blackmail

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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.

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

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

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Response stories

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

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.

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Shielding the Innocent: Human Trafficking in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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

Categories
Response stories

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

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.

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Client Incident: Wrongful Disclosure of Medical Information in Uzbekistan

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Response stories

Client Incident: Wrongful Disclosure of Medical Information in Uzbekistan

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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