by Peter Aggleton, Institute of Education, University of London, UK and Richard Parker, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbi

Original version: June 2002; revised version: November 2002

Summary

The 2002-2003 World AIDS Campaign will focus on stigma, discrimination, and human rights; this document reflects that focus. The background section introduces the notion that the universal stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS create a culture of fear in which those infected or affected are afflicted by guilt and fear at the prospect of speaking out about their experiences and those in positions of political power deny that a real problem exists. Gender-based discrimination is also an issue, as is the fact that fear impedes the flourishing of societies by arresting the capacity of people to take action to fight the epidemic. In short, stigma and discrimination constitute "the greatest barriers to preventing further infections, providing adequate care, support and treatment and alleviating impact."

The document proceeds to explore, first, what constitutes stigma and discrimination (and where their roots lie); second, what the links are to inequalities related to the withholding of human rights; third, how stigma and discrimination slow the fight against HIV/AIDS and how increased access to treatment might help reduce prejudice against those with the infection; and, fourth, the need to establish goals that respect human rights in concert with the UNGASS Declaration of Commitment.

Successful examples of local efforts throughout the world to address the problems of HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination are provided. Research shows that communities have worked to reduce these problems by:

• disseminating information
• helping citizens develop coping skills
• offering counselling
• initiating programmes involving those living with HIV/AIDS
• keeping a close watch on violations of human rights and creating a legal environment that is supportive of those who seek to challenge discrimination.

The authors conclude by making the point that breaking down stigma and discrimination related to HIV/AIDS is an onerous project. A simple smile, they say, cannot undo deep-seated social anxieties or erase the social divisions that have created them. However, they do assert that broad-based alliances are part of the solution, and that, "Ultimately, it is the power of community to challenge and to ‘take charge' that, in many countries, has made the greatest headway against the epidemic."

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