Committee for Women and Family Affairs at the Government of Tajikistan: Addressing HIV based violence, stigma and discrimination in communities

Project title: Addressing HIV based violence, stigma and discrimination in communities Starting date: End date: Donor GFATM/UNDP Implementing agency: CWFA Implementing partners: local governments, communities, women- leaders, religious leaders

MAJOR OBJECTIVES Hold national and regional training workshops on vulnerability of women and girls to HIV for Committee of Women and Family Affairs and local civil society organizations. Conduct sessions on HIV/AIDS prevention, role of local governments and communities in decreasing stigma and discrimination towards vulnerable groups, vulnerable women and PLWH.

PROJECT ACTIVITIES Awareness sessions with women in communities Training for local governments Public events

Focus on men Dominant role in the traditional Tajik society Violence against women is seen as normal in Tajik mentality Seasonal labor migration (men to migrate to Russia) makes them and their wives vulnerable to HIV/AIDS

Approaching young men and boys Behavior change communications should start from childhood Boys educated on HIV/AIDS prevention, transmission routes, norms of communication in the society Special focus on equal rights of women’s/girls and unacceptability and inexcusability of violence

RECOMMENDATIONS Involve both parents in HIV dialogue in the family Teachers could be strong promoters of HIV prevention and non-violence messages Peer-to-peer approach to educate young generation Use religious leaders who have a strong voice and influence in BCC Use public events, quizzes, community gatherings to deliver key messages CWFA could be a strong partner in approaching communities

Thank you! Tashakkur!