The study results show that stigma and discrimination remain substantial barriers to accessing healthcare services, ensuring dignity, and upholding human rights.
According to the global report of the Stigma Index for people living with HIV (Stigma Index 2.0), nearly 25% of respondents faced discrimination, including instances in healthcare settings, undermining trust and hindering access to vital services.
Additionally, 85% of people living with HIV experience internal stigma, leading many to hide their HIV status or interrupt treatment due to fear of judgment and rejection.
Discrimination continues to:
- complicate the process of HIV testing;
- hinder access to preventive services, including pre-exposure prophylaxis;
- restrict access to treatment;
- deter people from healthcare facilities;
- violate fundamental human rights;
- exacerbate the AIDS epidemic.
UNAIDS highlights several key steps to address this situation.
1. Elimination of discriminatory norms
Experts recommend reviewing laws and policies that criminalize and discriminate against people living with HIV, as well as those at risk. This includes norms related to sex work, drug use, same-sex relationships, and non-disclosure of HIV status.
2. Ensuring the right to access healthcare
- guaranteeing confidentiality;
- training healthcare workers and implementing a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination;
- abandoning mandatory HIV testing;
- providing quality and compassionate care for all.
3. Reducing stigma in society
- debunking myths and misinformation about HIV;
- supporting educational initiatives and raising awareness;
- fostering empathy and understanding.
4. Supporting community-led initiatives
- funding organizations run by people living with HIV;
- ensuring their participation in policy-making;
- protecting the right of communities to lead HIV response efforts.
It should be noted that every year on March 1st, the international day of "Zero Discrimination" is observed, organized by the UN.
In 2026, UNAIDS calls on governments, healthcare workers, employers, and society as a whole to listen to the voices of people living with HIV and take action based on the data collected, so that no one feels vulnerable because of their HIV status. Healthcare systems must become places where individuals can get tested, receive treatment, and care without discrimination.
