Tag: Human Rights

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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

Defeating bureaucracy in Uzbekistan: a story in access to ART

Photo: freepik.com

There are times in everyone’s life when you face unforeseen circumstances and difficulties that require perseverance and decisive action. The story of Barfina (name changed), who found herself in a situation where she was denied access to the life-saving drug ART (antiretroviral therapy), was an exceptional example of fighting for her right to health.

The client had to travel to Region N for several months to care for her mother. She took care to register at her new place of residence but unfortunately did not have time to receive ART before she left. Upon returning to her place of registration, she went to a specialized center to receive the drug, hoping for a quick solution to her problem. However, Barfina faced rejection, arguing that the drug was not available under the new registration. It would seem that trouble awaited her.

However, the client did not give up. She was advised to consult a lawyer, and this turned out to be a key step in her struggle. With the help of professional legal support, she began to act according to all the rules of the law. The lawyer contacted the local Civil Registry Center (CRC) and the doctor responsible for prescribing ART. Despite legal arguments, the regional doctor refused to provide the drug, violating the patient’s rights.

Barfina’s life depended on this medicine and she decided to go all the way. Together with a lawyer, they went to the deputy chief physician of the local hospital. There, a complaint was written about the behavior of the infectious disease specialist who refused to prescribe the medicine. Under the pressure of public attention and justified complaints, the deputy chief physician finally gave in and prescribed ART to the client for two months. But it is worth noting that the infectious disease doctor has still not admitted his guilt and refused to apologize for his actions.

This client’s story is an example of how perseverance and knowledge of one’s rights can defeat even the most complex bureaucratic system. For many people, ART is a life-saving medicine and no barriers should prevent them from receiving it. This case emphasizes the importance of fighting for one’s rights and gives hope that even in the most difficult situations, justice can be achieved.

Original Source (in Russian)

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

Triumph of Law in Tajikistan: Rustam’s story of fighting for justice

Photo: freepik.com

Rustam (name changed), who worked as a pediatric infectious disease specialist at a local polyclinic, suddenly encountered an extremely unpleasant situation that changed his life. Representatives of the law enforcement agencies came to his workplace and, without explaining, forcibly took him to the crime control department. During this unexpected delay, they seized Rustam’s cell phone and began asking obscene questions about his personal life and activities. He was forced to spend seven hours in this department, after which he was told to return the next day at 10 am.

Finding himself in such a difficult situation, Rustam turned to REActors for help. From the very beginning of his interaction with them, he felt care and attention, and the first question he heard was about the presence of pornography on his phone and its distribution. Rustam confidently assured that he had not sent any pornographic material, but acknowledged the presence of porn files in which he had been a participant. He was immediately referred to a lawyer for counseling and was advised to contact those who had detained him to confirm the time and date of the next meeting.

Two weeks later, Rustam was charged under Article 241 of the Criminal Code of Tajikistan, and the REActors began a joint effort to find out more details with the investigator in charge of the case. The first meeting with him did not bring the expected results, as the investigator showed reluctance to cooperate. Nevertheless, the lawyers did not give up and met with him again, carefully explaining that the files in Rustam’s phone had not been sent to anyone and that the actions of the law enforcement agencies violated the law. It was suggested to him that if there was no change in their attitude, an appeal to the Prosecutor General’s Office would be filed. However, even these persuasive arguments did not lead to changes in the situation.

Nevertheless, just three days after this last meeting, the investigator contacted Rustam and invited him to his department. There they discussed the situation again, returned his phone to him, and announced that the case was closed. Today, Rustam is feeling much better and the REActors remain in touch with him, providing the necessary support. Rustam decided to go to his parents to recover from the stress he had experienced.

Rustam’s story was a model of a successful struggle for justice, made possible through cooperation with REActors. They were on his side, provided him with legal support, and protected his interests, which led to the closure of the case. This case emphasizes the importance of legal aid and the principles of justice in society.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

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Response stories Uncategorized

Armenia: help in fighting blackmail

Photo: freepik.com

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

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Response stories

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

Photo: freepik.com

This case will tell the story of Nisa (name changed), 38 weeks pregnant, who faced denial of medical care at the maternity hospital. Thanks to the intervention of REActors, she was able to ensure the safe delivery of her baby despite the difficulties and obstacles along the way.

There is a special phase in every pregnant woman’s life when she awaits her baby with joy and hope. However, sometimes the happiest moments can be overshadowed by unexpected difficulties. This is exactly what happened to a client who was in her 38th week of pregnancy.

When Nisa felt unwell and experienced pain, she immediately went to the maternity hospital where she was referred because of the dislocation. However, she faced an unexpected rejection. The reason was that the maternity hospital she was referred to was closing for washing after four days. The doctors were only willing to perform a natural birth, which could be completed within two days, but they could not perform a cesarean section. In addition, the client’s elevated viral load made independent labor impossible. When she tried to go to another birthing center, she was also turned down, explaining that her original birthing center was still open.

However, the client did not give up. With perseverance and determination, despite the challenges, she decided to follow through to ensure the safe delivery of her baby. Nisa visited the maternity hospital and engaged in a dialog with the head doctor and the doctor in charge of the cesarean section. She demanded a written waiver from the maternity hospital to document her rights to medical care. Despite resistance, she got her way and was admitted to the maternity hospital.

After all the necessary tests and examinations, Nisa was referred for a cesarean section at another maternity hospital, to ensure safety for both her and the baby.

This story is an example of how perseverance and self-belief can overcome the most difficult situations. Thanks to the intervention of REActors and the client’s determination, she was able to ensure the safe delivery of her baby despite the bureaucracy and denials she faced. This is an important reminder that fighting for your rights and taking care of your health is always worth the effort.

Original Source (in Russian)

Also read:

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

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

Categories
Response stories

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

The issues faced by people living with HIV are not overlooked in Azerbaijan. The story of Samir (name changed) is just one of many cases, and former prisoners who have spent time in prison for breaking the law are well aware of the problem. Before being imprisoned, Samir injected drugs and got HIV as a result of improper syringe use. Despite his imprisonment, he did not stop his dangerous practice after his release. 

It was known that the Republican Narcology Center (RNC) could provide an opportunity to participate in an opioid substitution therapy (OST) program. However, Samir faced a refusal when he applied to the Center, motivated by the need to undergo mandatory treatment before joining the program.

In June 2023, Samir sought help from the REActor and asked for assistance in enrolling in the OST program. He explained that he was already taking antiretroviral treatment and enrolling in the program would help him to break the cycle.

Actions taken

Given that the organization is a member of the Country Coordinating Mechanism, which also includes the RNC, the project coordinator contacted the head of the Center. As a result of the discussion, it was agreed that Samir could be included in the OST program without mandatory pre-treatment. For convenience, Samir’s inclusion in the program was done at a point located at the Republican AIDS Center.

Conclusion

The current situation with HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan has its own nuances. In recent years, the country has taken steps to improve access to health services, legal aid and social protection for key populations, including those released from detention. However, significant work remains to be done to achieve positive change.

Also read:

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

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

Categories
Response stories

A REActor in Tajikistan spoke out against violence and lynching

During an evening walk in the city of N, by a river, a crowd of four young men who were trying to drag a young girl into the water attracted attention. She cried out desperately for help but was powerless against their violence. Witnessing this offense was a REActor who could not remain indifferent to what was happening and decided to intervene to protect the girl.

He approached the boys and asked what was going on. They stated that they were trying to “punish” the girl for her previous behavior. The paralegal was threatened and warned that he too would be in trouble if he continued to intervene. However, the paralegal could not get past what was happening and decided to call the police, and specified that without immediate intervention of law enforcement, the consequences could be fatal. After that, he again actively confronted the guys, trying to explain to them that it is unacceptable to judge and punish anyone outside the law and that any conflict can be resolved peacefully.

But the offenders continued to insist that the girl was “disgracing” the neighborhood with her behavior. Finally, police officers arrived on the scene. The guys tried to escape punishment by throwing themselves into the river and swimming downstream. The REActor pulled the girl out of the water and the police officers began chasing the fugitives along the shore. While authorities were busy apprehending the boys, REActor talked to the girl to find out what had happened. She said that one of the attackers was her ex-boyfriend, who found out that she had provided services to a client for a fee and decided to retaliate out of jealousy.

The REActor and the girl filed a police report against her ex-boyfriend and all those involved in the attack. The detained young man pleaded guilty and revealed the names of the other participants. After that, a manhunt for them began.

This story was an example of a successful response to violence and vigilante justice in the neighborhood. The REActor’s decisive actions saved the girl and brought her justice. It became a symbol of intolerance to violence and showed that one person can change the course of events and protect those in need of help. This case also reaffirmed the importance of cooperating with the police and using legal means to bring offenders to justice.

Also read:

Armenia: a criminal case was initiated at the Shengavit branch of Yerevan city department of police

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

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Response stories

Justice in a road traffic accident: REActor defended the rights of a victim in Kyrgyzstan

Photo: freepik.com

Earlier this year in Kyrgyzstan, Arthur (name changed) was the victim of a road traffic accident in which a second driver became the culprit by crashing into his car. After conducting an investigative check, the investigator refused to initiate a criminal case and sent the case to the traffic police to bring the guilty party to administrative responsibility under the code of offenses. The guilty driver was fined for traffic violations but refused to compensate for the damage caused to Arthur.

After contacting the REActor, Artur received legal support. The lawyer prepared the necessary documents and filed a statement of claim with the district court for compensation for material damage. In the process of court consideration, the lawyer requested to secure the claim, in particular, to seize the house of the perpetrator. The court issued a ruling on the seizure of the defendant’s property and then ruled in favor of Arthur, obliging the defendant to pay compensation in the amount of 350,650 soms (more than 3500 euros) for the damage caused.

Also read:

Armenia: a criminal case was initiated at the Shengavit branch of Yerevan city department of police

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

Categories
Response stories

Shielding the Innocent: Human Trafficking in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Trafficking in human beings, especially of children, is one of the burning issues in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the public was rightfully shocked and concerned when the attempted sale of a thirteen-year-old girl into an arranged marriage with a fifty-year-old man from Serbia was uncovered. The non-governmental organization “Zemlja djece u BiH” has been fighting against the trafficking of human beings for years, and the recent case in Kalesija demonstrated the importance and effectiveness of their work.

Fortunately, the local community reacted promptly, and the Center for Social Work Kalesija, together with the non-governmental organization “Zemlja djece u BiH“, the Cantonal Coordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, and the Police Department Kalesija, took timely and coordinated efforts to prevent the tragedy. The Cantonal Coordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings had been involved throughout the entire case since the first suspicion and had been providing guidance and support, which was of significant importance. Working together, they successfully halted the wedding procession at the country’s border and rescued the girl, who was dressed in a wedding gown, completely unaware of being a victim of trafficking in human beings. The parents who withdrew her from school to sell her, as well as all those involved in this dreadful act, have been identified, and appropriate measures will be taken against them.

This case demonstrated the importance of strengthening the capacities of professionals in preventing and combating trafficking in human beings. “Zemlja djece u BiH” has been working for years on developing referral mechanisms and enhancing the skills of professionals, which proved crucial in preventing such situations. They continue to protect children at risk, providing them with a safe environment in their daily center.

Additionally, this case sheds light on another concerning issue in Bosnia and Herzegovina – child marriages, where children are sold for money. Such marriages violate the basic human rights of children, necessitating further efforts to reduce this form of exploitation.

The successful rescue was the result of the multisectoral cooperation, as well as the consistent implementation of the local protocol for the prevention and handling of cases involving child exploitation.

The collaboration of multiple sectors is crucial in combating the trafficking of human beings and protecting children from exploitation. This problem requires a comprehensive approach and coordinated efforts from all relevant sectors to achieve sustainable and effective results.

This case also serves as a reminder to society of the importance of fighting against the trafficking of human beings and safeguarding the rights of children. Education, awareness, and coordinated action are key factors in this fight, and continuous efforts must be made to ensure a secure future for all children in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Also read:

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

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

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.

Also read:

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

Client Incident: Wrongful Disclosure of Medical Information in Uzbekistan

Categories
Response stories

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

The situation of HIV-positive people in Kazakhstan faces various challenges, including discrimination and stigmatization. Despite improved awareness and access to medical care, many women continue to face limitations and challenges related to their HIV status. Consider the case of Amina (name changed), who faced discrimination and difficulties in accessing medical care for her pregnancy termination.

On March 15, Amina, who is HIV-positive, approached REActor with a question about where she should initially go to terminate her pregnancy, as she has a one-year-old HIV-positive child and is not yet ready to become a mother again. At first, the REActor referred Amina to an infectious disease doctor, which is standard practice for women with HIV, but this is where the first difficulties began. The doctor issued a certificate required for termination of pregnancy and referred her to a gynecologist at her place of residence. However, when Amina went to the polyclinic with her paid ultrasound, it turned out that the pregnancy term determined on its basis did not coincide with the results of the previous study. This led to additional tests and a delay in the procedure.

On March 27, after a repeat ultrasound and hCG analysis, she was finally given a referral to the perinatal center for termination of pregnancy. However, the maternity center denied her the operation, explaining that they could not accept an HIV-positive patient because their facility did not have a “dirty zone” for such cases. This case of discrimination was based on recent rules introduced at the perinatal center.

Fighting for rights

Rejected and humiliated, Amina went to the REActor for help. The REActor went with her to the head of the AIDS Center and found out that the rules imposed did exist. Then REActor found out that the gynecologist who treated Amina at the polyclinic knew about the new rules and should not have referred her to the perinatal center. However, the gynecologist forgot about this and gave the wrong referral, putting Amina in an even greater situation of uncertainty and anxiety.

Amina was then sent to the city hospital, but even there she was not admitted because of the wrong referral. Only after correcting the document was, she admitted to the hospital and the surgery was finally performed on April 3.

Measures against discrimination

After all, this happened, Amina decided to file a complaint against the responsible gynecologist for the wrong referral. Together with the REActor, she went to the relevant service, where her complaint was recorded. The Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan reacted quickly and took action against the doctor.

According to the Ministry’s report, the doctor was severely reprimanded, deprived of her bonus, and suspended for 6 months for advanced training. However, the doctor herself did not provide Amina with such negative experiences and discrimination.

Conclusion

Amina’s case reflects the difficulties faced by HIV-positive women in Kazakhstan, particularly in accessing health care and reproductive services. Discrimination based on HIV status remains a serious problem, and additional measures must continue to be worked on to ensure equitable access to health care.

Authorities and healthcare providers should actively work to increase awareness and education on HIV/AIDS and implement protective mechanisms to prevent discrimination based on HIV status. Such measures will help to create a more favorable and safer environment for all people, and allow everyone to receive quality health care without fear of discrimination.

Also read:

Client Incident: Wrongful Disclosure of Medical Information in Uzbekistan

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

Categories
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)

Also read:

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

Categories
Response stories

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

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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Launching REAct in Kazakhstan: Enhancing Legal Protection and Responding to Human Rights Violations

To improve the level of human rights protection in the country and to effectively respond to violations at the community level, in early 2023, Kazakhstan decided to implement the REAct project. This was made possible as a result of successful collaboration between ICF “Alliance for Public Health” and local partners in the field of civil society, human rights, and health. As part of this process, tools and resources were developed and adapted to fit the local context and the needs of key groups.

Since its launch in April 2023, the project has been actively implemented in three cities: Astana, Almaty, and Ust-Kamenogorsk, where the largest number of people living with HIV reside. At the moment, the project involves 7 people, including 2 REActors in each of these cities and 1 national coordinator.

Project focus and objectives:

The main focus of the REAct project in Kazakhstan is to respond to and prepare project clients to defend their rights. Each applicant is provided with counseling depending on the specifics of his/her case and readiness to defend his/her rights. Also, such services as writing complaints, applications to law enforcement agencies, collecting documents for filing a lawsuit in court, referral to professional lawyers, as well as mediation and mediation between the victim and perpetrators are provided.

Significance of REAct for Kazakhstan:

The launch of REAct in Kazakhstan opens new opportunities for community-based human rights advocacy and effective response to violations. The project provides legal support to clients and mobilizes the community to take active measures to protect and promote the rights of people living with HIV. The REAct project is expected to improve the quality of services and address areas of human rights concern in Kazakhstan.

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

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REAct in Uzbekistan: Overcoming Barriers and Promoting Quality Health Interventions based on Human Rights

At the end of May, a two-day training on the REAct tool was held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The main objective of this event was to enhance the knowledge and skills of participants in overcoming barriers to access to health services for key populations and promoting quality health interventions based on human rights principles.

The first day of the training was dedicated to the basics of using the REAct tool. The participants received extensive information about the system and its practical application. The session discussed issues and problems arising in documenting and recording cases of human rights violations. The trainer shared his experience, reviewed typical mistakes, and provided recommendations on how to correctly fill out forms and provide reliable information on human rights violations.

The second day of the training started with a session on mechanisms for responding to human rights violations after documenting cases. Participants received information on the next steps, including interaction with law enforcement agencies, state institutions, and non-governmental organizations. The trainer emphasized the importance of following legal procedures and provided participants with information on available resources and support mechanisms.

As a result of the two-day training, participants learned new skills and tools that will help them to work more effectively with the REAct system and improve access to health services for key populations. The exchange of experience and discussion of practical situations made this training a valuable and interactive experience for all those present.

This event in Tashkent emphasizes the importance of respecting human rights and legal procedures in providing health services and responding to human rights violations in Uzbekistan.

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

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.

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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

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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

During the Harm Reduction International Conference, convened this year in Melbourne, Australia, on 16-19 April 2023, Svitlana Moroz, Chair of the Eurasian Women’s Network on AIDS (EWNA) spoke on Rapid response to discrimination and violence against women who use drugs in EECA countries during COVID-19 and lockdowns.

According to EWNA’s research, during the global pandemic, community-led organizations and women’s networks were at the forefront of the HIV response, becoming the link between women living with HIV, women who use drugs, and sex workers, and providing them with life-saving services, including harm reduction. Svitlana pointed out the main findings what key groups faced during the COVID-19 pandemic:

– police checkpoints at the city entrances were barriers for OAT patients from rural areas to access treatment. Women were even more affected by lockdowns, as they were mainly left at home with children missing daily treatment.

– prolongated methadone distribution (for 5 days) showed its efficiency during the crisis period and lockdown.

– harm reduction items postal delivery can be successfully combined with the distribution of educative and informational materials.

– COVID-19 pandemic provoked a considerable decrease in PWUD income, especially among women, who were the first to lose their jobs. Food packages are very needed.

– domestic violence happened more often during curfews, which requires immediate and remote legal consulting to the victim and support during an appeal to the police.

– request for shelter for WWUD and suffering domestic violence is not covered and needs to be sustainable.

The presentation also took into account REAct data: during the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 700 referrals from women who use drugs (WUD) were registered by national NGOs in 6 countries of the EECA region. And as the statistics show, the correlation between the growth of the pandemic and violence against women who use drugs is evident in EECA – each new “wave” of the pandemic was followed by another spike in violations of their rights.

Svitlana highlighted during her speech that in response, national NGOs made an effective intervention. In the countries, a crisis hotline for WWUD who suffer from domestic violence during the lockdown was established. It enables quick and remote consultations and support to women locked with an abuser. Also, we distributed business cards with crisis hotline phone numbers together with harm reduction and prevention items, that were sent to clients by mail to avoid face-to-face contact. And did numerous informational publications and consulting of clients online in social media as well.

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Report on the results of the Analysis of the Hotline calls: Domestic and other forms of violence against women living with HIV and women in key populations during the COVID-19 pandemic

Report on the results of the Analysis of the Hotline calls: Domestic and other forms of violence against women living with HIV and women in key populations during the COVID-19 pandemic