Stigma, discrimination and criminalisation remain a persistent and pernicious challenge for people living with HIV in all our diversities, limiting access to healthcare and the realisation of optimal quality of life. The Global PLHIV Stigma Index report found a staggering 88% of people living with HIV experience internalised stigma, signaling the critical need to address mental health needs of people living with HIV.

Despite commitments of UN Member States to the 2021 HIV Political Declaration to create enabling legal environments, progress in many countries has stalled or even reversed. The possibility is remote of achieving the targets of fewer than 10% of people living with HIV and key populations experiencing stigma and discrimination by 2025 and fewer than 10% of countries with punitive laws and policy environments that impede access to services. Similarly, there are still too many countries with laws and regulations that restrict the freedom of movement of people living with HIV just because of their HIV status.

This session will review where we are with tackling stigma, discrimination and criminalization and the role that networks of people living with HIV and allied human rights defenders can play in tackling these major barriers to our rights and health.

1. Moderator: Sophie Brion (USA)

What does it take to challenge HIV criminalisation at country level: A Community and legal perspective.

1. Speaker: Immacule Owomugisha (Uganda)

The meaning and effectiveness of sex work decrimalisation to achieving the 10-10-10 targets.

1. Speaker: Jules Kim (Australia)

The ideal policy for comprehensive care for people living with HIV who use drugs.

1. Speaker: Judy Chang (Italy)

Challenging stigma and discrimination in the MENA region, country and regional perspective. 

1. Speaker: Tariq El Alaoui (Morocco)

How does USAID contribute in tackling stigma, discrimination of people living and affected by HIV? 

1. Speaker: Kent Klindera (UK)

Q&A