The impact of discriminatory laws on hiv prevalence
Structural factors such as discrimination against LGBT+ people, often state-sanctioned through laws that criminalise same-sex relationships or deny equal rights, can hinder HIV prevention efforts:
Limited uptake of testing and treatment services amongst LGBT+ populations
Limited access to quality healthcare
Increased likelihood of risky behaviour as a coping mechanism, such as substance abuse or unprotected sex
Lack of familial support and financial stability, leading to poverty and homelessness
Research demonstrates that HIV prevalence is higher in countries with more anti-LGBT+ laws, particularly in those that still criminalise homosexuality.
What does the route to LGBT INCLUSION LOOK LIKE?
Inclusion begins with reforms to create an environment where LGBT+ people do not fear legal repercussions for simply existing, and instead feel like equal members of society. This means:
Decriminalising same-sex intimacy and abolishing laws that restrict LGBT+ people and LGBT+ organisations
Passing anti-discrimination legislation that affords protections to LGBT+ people in institutions such as employment, housing and healthcare
Being actively pro-LGBT+, challenging stigma in all its forms
WHAT CAN LEGISLATORS DO?
Pass legislation that protects LGBT+ people from discrimination in all walks of life, including healthcare, employment, housing and the justice system.
Approve LGBT-inclusive education, with guidelines that normalise same-sex relationships and promote acceptance of different identities
Form parliamentary caucuses that highlight LGBT+ issues and work to progress inclusive legislation
Work with colleagues across borders to share experiences in LGBT+ advocacy and strategies in HIV prevention
USEFUL LINKS AND RESOURCES
https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/campaigns/2014/2014gapreport/gapreport
https://www.apa.org/pi/aids/resources/exchange/2012/04/discrimination-homophobia
https://www.cdc.gov/msmhealth/stigma-and-discrimination.htm
https://www.venice.coe.int/webforms/documents/default.aspx?pdffile=CDL-REF(2019)040-e
https://www.unaids.org/sites/default/files/country/documents/MKD_2020_countryreport.pdf
https://zp.mk/en/prep-in-macedonia-the-2021-pilot-programme/