Tag: HIV

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 2, 2024

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

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

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

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

Original article source (in Russian)

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Uzbekistan

Response stories

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 20, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Confronting neglect: how a woman sought justice in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 8, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date August 5, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

Original article source (in Russian)

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date July 11, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resilience of the HIV response: a regional meeting of REActors from five countries in Sarajevo

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 26, 2024

12-13 June, 2024, Sarajevo hosted an important meeting of REActors from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, and Serbian, within the framework of the SOS 2.0 Regional Program 2022-2024, focusing on the sustainability of the HIV response in these five countries of South Eastern Europe. The event, organized by the South Eastern Europe Regional TB and HIV Community Network (SEE RCN)together with the Alliance for Public Health, brought together 40 participants, including national REActors and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) experts.

On the first day of the meeting, participants discussed the goals, objectives, and expected outcomes of the event. The REAct section provided an overview of the program’s achievements and discussed the challenges faced by the teams between 2022 and 2024. Each of the five countries presented their challenges and problem areas, followed by recommendations for improving the program at the national level. Participants also brainstormed on how to promote REAct and increase client outreach, discussed strategic cases and advocacy methods, and well as how to achieve sustainability of the REAct program in the Southeast Europe region.

At the same time, another section discussed the current situation with PrEP implementation in five countries of the region. The experience and achievements of PrEP programs over the last two years, clinical aspects of pre-exposure prophylaxis use, and the development and discussion of PrEP protocols were reviewed.

The second day of the meeting focused on discussing the progress, challenges, and plans for REAct and PrEP implementation. Representatives from each country shared their successes and challenges and provided recommendations for improvement. Fast Track Cities initiative, ARV price reduction, self-testing and decentralized testing, and social contract mechanisms were also touched upon. Each of these topics was discussed taking into account progress, challenges, and plans, with mandatory feedback from country representatives and the development of recommendations.

Victoria Kalyniuk, REAct Regional Coordinator, participated in this meeting and emphasized the importance of using REAct to improve the situation with gender barriers in the Balkans: “The country presentations and our discussions demonstrated that the use of REAct has a huge potential to overcome gender barriers in access to services for key groups. Thus, the research conducted by the Eurasian Women’s Network on AIDS shows how difficult the situation remains in the region of South Eastern Europe and how important it is to implement REAct in new areas to improve this situation and ensure equal access to necessary services for all”.

The meeting concluded with final discussions and identification of the next steps. The event was an important step towards strengthening the sustainability and effectiveness of the HIV response in the South Eastern Europe region, providing participants with an opportunity to share experiences, discuss current challenges, and develop strategies for further improvements.

Navigating stigma in healthcare: the case from North Macedonia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 21, 2024

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

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

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

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 14, 2024

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

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

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

Ethics in question: a case of discrimination in Azerbaijan medicine

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 3, 2024

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

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

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

Delay in vital therapy: a case from Montenegro

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 1, 2024

In January 2024, REActors received a complaint from Mateo (name changed) regarding a significant infringement on his right to access necessary treatment. Despite adhering to the protocol for early medication requisition at the designated pharmacy, Mateo was deprived of his essential ART for over ten days.

The gravity of this situation is underscored by the fact that Mateo had requested the medication a week in advance, yet it was not provided on time. REActors’ immediate response involved educating Mateo about his rights and the measures available to protect those rights in such scenarios. It is imperative for patients undergoing critical treatments like HIV therapy to be knowledgeable about their rights.

REActors also launched an independent investigation to ascertain the causes behind the medication delay. Their goal was to collaborate with pharmacy staff and relevant authorities to prevent such issues in the future. In Montenegro, HIV therapy distribution is centralized through a single pharmacy, which is staffed with trained professionals.

Mateo was then advised to file a formal complaint with the ombudsman for patient rights. This step is crucial in addressing such issues and improving healthcare service delivery. This incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to medical protocols and clear communication between healthcare providers and patients. Timely delivery of medication is vital for patients, emphasizing the need for effective resolution mechanisms within the healthcare system.

Seeking support: a woman living with HIV seeks help from REActors in Tajikistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 31, 2024

Zaira (name changed), a 28-year-old woman living with HIV, approached the national REActors on the recommendation of a friend who had heard about their work through social media. The friend said that all services, including legal counseling, were free of charge.

In 2021, Zaira and her friends went to Russia to earn money. She got a job in a bakery and at the same time prepared documents and took the necessary tests. A few days later, she was called to work and informed that she had HIV and was asked to leave the workplace. Zaira planned to go home, but instead, she moved to another city and started working illegally, not believing in her diagnosis.

In the end of 2023, while returning to N, she was told at the airport in Russia that she was deported for life. This news greatly upset Zaira. She shared her situation with a friend who advised her to contact REActor to consult with a lawyer.

After the woman told her story, the REActor provided her with psycho-emotional support and explained what the organization does and what services are provided. She also talked about HIV and AIDS, how the virus is transmitted, and the legal and psychological services available.

The REActor explained to Zaira that she had violated Russian law by not leaving the country promptly and was working illegally, which could have influenced the decision to deport her for life. She also noted that working in a bakery, where there is contact with sharp and cutting objects, could have put herself and others at risk.

The REActor then brought in a lawyer who discussed her legal situation with Zaira. He explained in detail that according to Russian law, migrant workers living with HIV cannot work or stay in Russia. Although this information upset the woman, she expressed her gratitude for the counseling and understanding of the situation. Zaira was also offered further psychological support and possible ways to resolve legal issues related to her status and future employment.

Defending the right to medical care in Ukraine

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 20, 2024

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

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

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

Solidarity and action: International AIDS Candlelight Memorial

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Empowering equality: fighting discrimination against HIV in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 14, 2024

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

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

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

Strength and сourage: fighting HIV discrimination in Uzbekistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 10, 2024

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

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

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

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

A test of strength: fighting for truth and justice in Armenia

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 8, 2024

In early 2024, Sergo (name changed) met a man on Telegram (a dating group for members of the LGBTIQ community) who offered to meet him. Having decided to do so, the guy went to the meeting. Afterward, leaving the car, he left his belongings there. But even when Sergo ran after the car to stop it, the stranger continued driving.

The next morning Sergo went to the police, fearing to confess to law enforcement officials that he had met the stranger through Telegram. During interrogation, they began accusing him of not serving in the army and mocking his HIV-positive status. When the conversation about a possible cab started, Sergo was forced to tell the truth that it was a meeting after meeting on Telegram. As a result, he was intimidated, threatened with criminal prosecution for untruthful statements, and was not allowed to leave the police station. Also, the police officers checked the guy’s phone and contacted his mother and other relatives.

After seeking help from the REActor, the client was advised to contact a lawyer, who sent a warning to the office of the Human Rights Defender. With the support of this office, Sergo left the police station. Further, the lawyer contacted the police department and the pressure on Sergo stopped and a preliminary investigation of the criminal case was initiated based on his statement.

The road to acceptance: the story of Eraj from Tajikistan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date April 30, 2024

National REActors were approached by Eraj (name changed), a 46-year-old man living with HIV. The client had a history of injecting drug use and had been incarcerated. He heard about REActors from an acquaintance with whom he attends an opioid substitution therapy (OST) program. Eraj said he learned of his HIV status in prison in 2019 and has not taken antiretroviral therapy (ART) since then due to negative information about the medication. Having recently left prison, he had already been attending drug treatment and receiving substitution therapy for two weeks. The doctor strongly recommended starting HIV treatment, but Eraj was not ready due to negative beliefs.

But the main reason for turning to REActors was stigma and discrimination from his family. Eraj was given a small room and separate utensils, and his children were forbidden to go near him. His mother constantly reminds him of his past as a prisoner and drug user, fearing that he may infect the whole family. The family does not believe his words as he has often lied to them. Eraj asked REActor to talk to his family to dispel myths about HIV and explain the importance of treatment. He said he could no longer tolerate this attitude and hoped for help.

The REActor listened to the man and gave him full information about HIV, AIDS, and ART, explaining the importance of starting treatment. She explained about her organization and services, offering to visit his home to talk to his family. The REActor asked the man to discuss with his mother first to ensure that the family was ready to talk. Three days later, the paralegal visited their home where all family members were gathered. She introduced herself and explained what HIV is, how it is transmitted, and why ART is vital. Eraj’s brother asked questions about substitution therapy, expressing his displeasure that it was also a drug, and blamed him for the problems. The REActor explained that OST is a legitimate form of treatment and that HIV can be controlled with ART. She asked the family to support Eraj through the process, warning that without help he could relapse. The family eventually decided to give Eraj another chance on the condition that he start treatment and work on himself.

A week after the visit, the REActor called Eraj to see how he was doing. He reported that he had started taking ART, was visiting the OST site, came home on time, and his brother had arranged for him to work as a construction assistant. He was happy that life was getting better and thanked me for the help.

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