Tag: Kazakhstan

Threats and cyberbullying against a non-binary person in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date June 5, 2024

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

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

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

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

Protect your rights: defeating discrimination in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date May 1, 2024

Svetlana (name changed), a resident of the city N, participates in a substitution therapy program (OAT). Through an outsourcing company, she was assigned to work for a firm selling household chemicals as a “packer”.

Svetlana successfully passed her probationary period, demonstrating her skills and diligence. However, when it came time to apply for permanent employment, she was rejected after learning of her participation in the OAT program. The employer rescinded the hiring decision, citing possible reputational consequences.

The girl turned to REActor for help and their efforts were not in vain. Together they sent appeals to various government agencies, demanding that the situation be sorted out. They also contacted the employer, who confirmed that Svetlana had successfully passed her probationary period and that the company was now ready to hire her permanently. The employer was probably afraid of possible negative consequences and decided to change his decision. Perhaps he realized that refusal to participate in the OAT program could lead to legal problems.

Also, as a result of the written appeals, the Department of Labor and Social Security began an inspection of the outsourcing company, which was subsequently placed on the list of unreliable labor market service providers.

This story shows how a REActor was able to change Svetlana’s life and influence the policies of the company that tried to stop her.

Violation of confidentiality of a patient at an AIDS center in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date April 10, 2024

Marat (name changed) faced a serious violation of his privacy and data protection rights. Due to his employment, he did not visit the AIDS Center where he was registered. A nurse from the facility visited him at his place of residence, but did not find the man at home. As a result, she left a note in the door, urging him to come in for a scheduled test. Neighbors who read the note misinterpreted the information about Marat’s HIV status and began to stigmatize him as “contagious”.

Leaving the note with information about Marat’s HIV status in a visible place led to a violation of his right to privacy and protection of personal data. It also resulted in serious social consequences, including stigmatization by his neighbors. According to the law, information about HIV status is strictly confidential and cannot be disclosed without the patient’s consent, and violation of these norms entails liability and may lead to legal consequences for the medical institution and its staff.

To protect his rights, Marat turned to REActors for help. In response to the nurse’s unlawful actions, REActors prepared and wrote a complaint to the AIDS Center.

Entitlement or preference? The world celebrates Health Day

Post author By velyunsky
Post date April 7, 2024

April 7 marks World Health Day, founded by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1950. This day recalls the importance of health for all people in the world and emphasizes the need for access to skilled health care as a fundamental human right. In this context, providing life-saving services such as opioid substitution therapy (OST) to people from key populations is critical. This approach enables patients to manage physical dependence, reduce the risk of transmission of infectious diseases (e.g. HIV or hepatitis), and improve quality of life.

However, despite the proven effectiveness of OST, many people around the world (including in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region) face barriers to accessing this treatment due to stigmatization, lack of access to health services, or legal restrictions. This creates serious obstacles for those in need of assistance.

For example, recent changes to the Ministry of Health’s January 24 Order to the opioid substitution therapy program in Georgia have made significant adjustments. Under the previous rules, patients participating in the program had the opportunity to receive a two-day dose of medication if they were unable to visit a healthcare facility, and this dose could be picked up for them by a family member or other authorized person. However, under the changes made, this right has been limited and patients or their authorized representatives must now visit the service center daily.

The changes also affected the ability to provide patients with pharmaceuticals in special cases. Previously, there was an option to receive a five-day supply of medication when long-term home treatment exceeding two months was required, or a seven-day supply for those with a pronounced disability or active tuberculosis. However, the amendments have completely abolished this exceptional regulation. Under the previous regulation, patients could also be given a dose if they had to move around the country (the principle of business travel). The innovations have abolished this regulation and now, even in cases of exceptional need such as business travel or ill health, patients can only be given a one-day dose.

Kazakhstan also has a serious problem with violations of the rights to health care and health maintenance for people who use psychoactive substances. These problems have been identified, including through the REAct, on appeals related to obstacles in accessing medical services for clients. This situation covers several aspects:

– Lack of access to free medical care, including tests and abortions, for persons without compulsory social health insurance.

– Limited access to a guaranteed amount of free medical care for people who use psychoactive substances.

– Insufficient drug supply and diagnosis of diseases among persons in detention centers.

According to the Order of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan from September 23, 2020, № KR DSM-108/2020, treatment of people who use psychoactive substances is carried out within the guaranteed volume of free medical care in regional Mental Health Centers (MHC). Anonymous treatment is available only on a paid basis. However free medical care does not provide the necessary range of services for social, psychological, pedagogical, labor, cultural, economic, and legal support for people from the community.

The theme of this year’s World Health Day is “My Health, My Right” and aims to support and recognize the right of everyone, wherever they are, to access high-quality health care, education and health information, and freedom from discrimination. This means that it is worth taking another opportunity to draw public attention to such violations of people’s rights to quality and timely health care and the need to develop a model that complies with human rights principles and international standards while taking into account the needs of patients, their families and the interests of organizations providing addiction treatment services. And legislate to guarantee the provision of a full range of assistance for the treatment and rehabilitation of everyone who needs it.

Health is everyone’s right, as is equal access for all people to qualified care.

The fight for patients’ rights has led to changes in a hospital in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 20, 2024

In the city of N, in the complicated trauma department of the city clinical hospital, an event that shook one woman’s life and led to major changes in the institution’s policies took place.

As part of his outreach work, the REActor visited a client who had been hospitalized the previous day in the department. During the encounter, he noticed a blue plastic bracelet worn on the client’s arm containing her personal information, ward abbreviation, room number, and information about her HIV-positive status. When asked by the REActor about the significance of this information, the client explained that bracelets with similar data were common among patients and that the information about her HIV status had been added after the ward manager made rounds.

The REActor attempts to have the confidential information removed from the bracelet was resisted by the ward manager, who asserted that he was well versed in clinical protocol and did not consider it necessary to take into account the comments of “amateurs”.

Having understood the situation, the REactor sent a complaint to the chief physician of the hospital. Thanks to this complaint, an immediate order was given to remove confidential information from the patient’s bracelet. The department head was reprimanded and then fired due to multiple prior violations, including disregard for patient rights.

This story is an example of how determination and fighting for justice can lead to systemic change. It emphasizes the importance of respecting patients’ rights to privacy and protection from discrimination based on their health. The REActor was able to bring change to a previously unjust system, demonstrating that everyone has the right to have their interests respected and protected.

Denial of access to specialized medical services for a woman living with HIV in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date March 6, 2024

Alla (name changed), a woman living with HIV, faced serious violations of her access to health services and rights. She was diagnosed with HIV 14 years ago and recently went to a public polyclinic to seek help for increasing symptoms of depression. However, she was denied access to a psychotherapist and appropriate medication.

Alla’s rights were violated by the medical staff of the polyclinic, namely the therapist in charge, who denied her the necessary examination and treatment. Such behavior violates the patient’s rights to receive medical care and constitutes discrimination on the basis of HIV status.

According to the legislation, all citizens have equal rights to medical care, regardless of their HIV status. Medical institutions are obliged to provide the necessary treatment and counseling without discrimination and stigmatization of patients. Denial of medical care on the basis of HIV status is a direct violation of these rights and norms.

To protect her rights, Alla turned to REActors for help. In response to the unlawful actions of the polyclinic, REActors prepared and wrote a complaint to the primary health care center with a request to take measures to restore Alla’s rights and ensure proper medical care.

Request as discrimination: protecting the rights of HIV patients in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date February 5, 2024

Rayana (name changed), a woman living with HIV, faced a violation of her rights when trying to take a trip to a sanatorium. The staff demanded a certificate from the AIDS Center, which would have forced Rayana to disclose her HIV status. The woman did not want to do this, as she was eager to avoid possible negative consequences.

The staff’s demand to provide such a document is a violation of the client’s rights. Medical information, including HIV status, is strictly confidential and may not be disclosed without the patient’s consent. Staff of medical institutions are obliged to comply with these norms and not to demand disclosure of information that may lead to stigmatization or discrimination of the patient.

To protect her rights, Rayana turned to REActors for help. In response to the sanatorium’s misconduct, the REActors prepared and wrote a complaint to the Public Health Department. The complaint emphasized that the institution’s demands contradict the laws on personal data protection and patients’ rights, and requested to take measures to restore justice.

The situation faced by Rayana emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of patients with HIV and the need to respect the confidentiality of medical information. All healthcare providers must respect the rights of their patients and protect them from discrimination and stigmatization.

Isolation, denial and victory: the case in a dental clinic in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 21, 2023

The symptoms of periodontitis forced Saule (name changed) to seek help at a dental clinic recommended by a friend. However, at the first visit, the doctor began to investigate not only the condition of her teeth but also Saule’s HIV and hepatitis status. Upon learning of her infectious diagnosis, the doctor refused treatment, citing “inability to provide services” because of Saule’s status.

The girl’s surprise increased when her friend, who had applied for a similar service, received it without problems. When Saule learned that the doctor not only refused treatment but also advised her friend to stop communicating, citing contagiousness, she decided to look into the situation.

The doctor argued that the clinic lacked the necessary equipment, tools, and protective clothing to work with HIV-positive people. Faced with such discrimination, the girl turned to REActor for support, who provided an HIV training module and explained Saule’s rights.

The next day, the REActor visited the clinic and spoke with the doctor about the inadmissibility of disclosing information about HIV-positive patients and the obligations of medical staff towards HIV-positive people.

The clinic apologized, provided dental care to Saule, and ensured that such violations would not happen again.

This story emphasizes the importance of respecting patients’ rights, denouncing discrimination, and the need to educate medical staff about HIV infection. Fighting for equal rights to health care is a key element in creating an inclusive and tolerant healthcare environment.

Fighting for rights: confronting discrimination based on TB in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 19, 2023

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.

Eviction from a dormitory due to HIV+ status in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 14, 2023

The story of Maria (name changed), living with HIV+ in rented dormitory accommodation, was a testimony of injustice and discrimination. But thanks to the decisive actions and support of REActor, the woman was able to defend her rights and change the course of events.

In the latest episode of her fight for equal rights, Maria was notified that she needed to be evicted from the dormitory because of her HIV+ status. The commandant of the dormitory made it clear that Maria staying there could pose a risk of HIV transmission to other residents, especially children.

This is not the first case of discrimination Maria has faced, but this time she decided not to keep silent and turned to REActor for help. The paralegal provided her with not only support but also information about her rights and possible actions.

The first step was the REActor’s consultation with Maria. Her rights were explained and possible steps for advocacy were suggested. Then, together with the REActor, they went to the dormitory to discuss the grounds for eviction with the administration.

A meeting with the hostel commandant confirmed that the decision to evict was directly related to the HIV+ status of Maria and her child. To overcome stigma and discrimination, the REActor decided to have a preventive conversation with the hostel administrator. The ways of HIV transmission and prevention methods were explained, it was emphasized that HIV is not airborne and that discrimination against PLHIV is unacceptable.

The commandant of the dormitory apologized for the incident and assured Maria that she was allowed to stay. There was also a promise of confidentiality and training for dormitory staff to prevent similar incidents in the future.

This story highlights the importance of combating discrimination and stigmatization of PLHIV in Kazakhstan. By persevering and seeking help, Maria and the REActor were able to achieve justice and change society’s view of the real risks of HIV transmission. Combating prejudice and raising public awareness about PLHIV remain key steps towards an inclusive society.

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 12, 2023

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.

Drug policy of zero tolerance and double standard practices. ENPUD analytical paper on the situation in Kazakhstan

Partners' publication

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 8, 2023

In 2023, ENPUD’s Expert Council on Drug Policy started documenting strategic cases among people who inject drugs in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. In Kazakhstan, 3 strategic cases were documented. Based on the collected evidence, ENPUD experts prepared an analytical document on drug policy trends in the country.

Zero tolerance policy and double standards practice, this is all you need to know about the fight against drug trafficking in Kazakhstan. To say that there is outright repression of drug addicts here is to say nothing. The dictatorial system can only prohibit everything and limit people’s rights and freedoms in every possible way, what to say about people who use drugs?

In Kazakhstan, “drug addiction” is a stigma, with which it is almost impossible for a person to fully socialize in a normal society, because this label will constantly hang behind the back, highlighted in all electronic databases, even after the official deregistration. Such a person is in a constant atmosphere of distrust and violation of rights, he can be taken for examination for no other reason than the

He or she is denied access to the civil service and many other official places, including representative bodies, as this fact is often used by the authorities as criminalization and banal compromise. These facts of marginalization are confirmed by health professionals, publications in the media, as well as by the testimonies of people who are registered as drug users.

This publication is a product developed independently by the regional community ENPUD. The opinions expressed in the publication may not align with the position of the Global Fund, the Alliance for Public Health, the regional project SoS_project, REAct, or partners in the countries. Representatives of the aforementioned organizations were not involved in the writing, approval, or review of the material presented in this publication.

Tags ENPUD, Kazakhstan

Response stories

Protecting the rights of a person living with HIV+ in Kazakhstan: A case of dismissal and a victory for justice

Post author By velyunsky
Post date December 3, 2023

In Kazakhstan, the dismissal of Alan (name changed), a man living with HIV+, prompted the intervention of REActors. Paralegals came to the aid of a man who faced discrimination at his workplace in a private packaging firm.

Alan was fired from his job on the shop floor of a private firm after a colleague learned of his HIV-positive status. A senior manager at the firm invited Alan to speak to him and, citing negative attitudes from coworkers, asked him to quit. The manager was dismissive of Alan, ignoring his rights and refusing to listen to his side of the situation.

The REActor took it upon himself to protect Alan’s rights by taking the following steps – he went to the private firm to meet with the senior manager. During the conversation, issues of discrimination and violations of Alan’s employment rights were raised. The REActor drew the manager’s attention to the fact that the dismissal was based solely on Alan’s HIV status, which was a breach of the law.

It was emphasized that the Labor Law prohibits dismissal for reasons unrelated to professional duties or health conditions if it does not affect the performance of employment duties.

The manager, representing the firm, apologized for the unfortunate termination and expressed his willingness to hire Alan back, acknowledging his incompetence in the matter.

Alan eventually received not only an apology but also an offer to return to work. However, perhaps because of the negative experience, Alan declined the offer.

This case became a shining example of successful advocacy for the rights of a person with HIV+ in Kazakhstan. REActors continue its work to combat discrimination and violations of rights in employment, ensuring fairness and equal opportunities for all citizens.

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags HIV, Kazakhstan

News Response stories

Access of people who use drugs to services under the guaranteed free medical care in Kazakhstan: presentation based on REAct data

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 30, 2023

On November 30, 2023, a meeting was held to discuss issues on mandatory social health insurance (MSHI) from community representatives with representatives of the Non-Public Joint Stock Company “FSMS” and the Drug Policy Department of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

During the meeting, topical topics and issues related to compulsory health insurance, namely:

– lack of possibility to take tests and perform abortion without paying for MSHI.

– access of people who use drugs to the guaranteed volumes of free medical care and diagnosis of diseases among citizens in prison.

The appeals gathered through the REAct tool were used during one of the presentations on barriers to accessing health services for people who inject drugs.

The participants of the meeting were able to express their opinions and share their experiences in this area. This allowed to creation of an atmosphere of open dialog and mutual understanding between different stakeholders.

Representatives of the NAO “FSMS” and the Drug Policy Department of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan presented their positions and answered the questions of the meeting participants. Special attention was paid to the issues of accessibility and quality of medical care for people from key population groups.

The participants of the meeting discussed possible ways to improve the system, a good proposal was to introduce an “insurance amnesty” for people undergoing long-term treatment and rehabilitation.

In general, the meeting was very useful and productive for all participants. Different points of view were expressed, common ways of cooperation were found and actions to improve the system of compulsory health insurance were defined. This allows us to hope for positive changes in this area and improve the availability and quality of medical care for all citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The event was organized by the Association of Legal Entities “Kazakhstan Union of People Living with HIV”.

Tags Kazakhstan

Response stories

Overcoming stigma and discrimination in maternity hospitals in Kazakhstan

Post author By velyunsky
Post date November 27, 2023

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

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Human Rights, Kazakhstan

Response stories

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date October 7, 2023

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

Tags Discrimination, Human Rights, Kazakhstan

Response stories

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

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 8, 2023

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

Situation:

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

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

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

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

Actions and REAction:

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

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

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

Conclusion:

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

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Discrimination, Human Rights, Kazakhstan

Response stories

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Post author By velyunsky
Post date September 8, 2023

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

Situation:

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

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

Actions and REAction:

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

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

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

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

Conclusion:

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

Also read:

Combating Discrimination Against Children with HIV in Kazakhstan Educational Institutions

Problems of HIV-positive prisoners in Azerbaijan

Tags Discrimination, HIV, Kazakhstan