Addressing HIV related Stigma and Discrimination in the World of Work S. Mohammad Afsar Senior Technical Specialist ILO/AIDS, Geneva

Statements for discussion

People with HIV infection should be isolated to prevent further transmission. AIDS is mainly a problem of people with immoral behaviour. There should be compulsory testing for HIV to prevent the spread of HIV. A person living with HIV must disclose his/her status. Women with HIV infection should not have children.

Stigma & discrimination Human rights violations in the workplace Denial of access to employment Breach of confidentiality Disclosure of HIV status Mandatory HIV testing or screening Stigma and discrimination Takes three forms – Pre-employment: mandatory testing or screening, restrictions on accessing certain kinds of employment Differing terms and conditions Unfair dismissal Inequality in terms and conditions of employment Unjustified dismissal Stigma & discrimination and Gender Inequality

Stigma and Discrimination at Work Source: Evidence Brief, GNP+, 2012, Findings from the People Living with HIV Stigma Index 13% in Poland to 40% in Kenya and Zambia reported loss of job or source of income. 8% in Estonia to 45% in Nigeria lost their job or source of income. 5% in Mexico to 27% in Nigeria were refused the opportunity to work. 4% in Estonia to 28% in Kenya had had their nature of work changed or denied promotion. 8% in Estonia to 54% in Malaysia reported discriminatory reactions from employers. 5% in Estonia to 54% in Malaysia reported discriminatory reactions from co-workers

Key reasons for Stigma & Discrimination: HIV/AIDS often seen from the moralistic lens - Only people with promiscuous behaviour get HIV. Lack of correct knowledge about HIV and AIDS

Key lessons: Reducing Stigma and discrimination is a good strategy for HIV prevention It is important to protect the rights of People living with HIV. Non-discriminatory workplace HIV/AIDS policy creates an enabling environment for people to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services.

A message from a person living with HIV

THANK YOU ILO Programme on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work (ILO/AIDS) www.ilo.org/aids